Jan 6, 2026

Irregular Migration to Spain Falls Sharply in 2025 With Decline in Atlantic Crossings$

Analysis by The North Africa Journal

Irregular migration to Spain declined significantly in 2025 following a record year in 2024, according to official figures. The drop was driven primarily by a sharp reduction in sea crossings to the Canary Islands, long one of Europe’s most dangerous migration routes. Enhanced maritime surveillance and expanded cooperation between Spain, the European Union, and key departure countries in West and North Africa played a central role in reducing Atlantic crossings. At the same time, arrivals to Spain did not disappear but shifted geographically, with increased landings reported in the Balearic Islands via the western Mediterranean. The figures highlight how enforcement measures can reshape migration patterns while leaving underlying pressures and humanitarian risks largely unchanged.

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Premium Contents

Morocco’s Lawyers Push Back Against Proposed Changes to Bar Governance$

by The North Africa Journal | Jan 9, 2026 | Briefs, Business & Economy, Morocco, 1shorts, Maghreb, Economy & Business, Business and Economy, 1PREMIUM

A proposed law governing Morocco’s legal profession has triggered protests and a nationwide strike, as lawyers accuse the Justice Ministry of sidelining consultations and expanding executive oversight. The dispute suggests broader tensions over professional independence, regulatory authority, and the future of Morocco’s legal market.

Mali: Gold Mining Site in Sikasso Region Hit by Armed Group$

by The North Africa Journal | Jan 9, 2026 | Briefs, Security & Defense, Mali, Terrorism, 1shorts, Sahel, Terrorism, Security, Shield and Alert: Sahel, 1PREMIUM

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Burkina Faso: Deep Supply Weaknesses in Ouagadougou Amid Seasonal Butane Shortages$

by The North Africa Journal | Jan 9, 2026 | Briefs, Business & Economy, 1shorts, Burkina Faso, Sahel, Social/Human, Shield and Alert: Sahel, Business, 1PREMIUM

Each year between December and January, Ouagadougou faces a renewed shortage of butane gas just as household demand peaks. The recurring tension on supply, linked to limited stocks, uneven distribution and a shortage of empty cylinders for refilling, is forcing many families to fall back on charcoal and firewood, with financial, health and environmental consequences.

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