Amid recent accusations of migrant expulsions, the Mauritanian government has stepped forward to clarify its stance.
Government spokesperson Houssein Ould Meddou, also the Minister of Culture and Relations, defended Mauritania’s migration policy during a press conference on Thursday, March 6, following the weekly cabinet meeting. He emphasised the country’s distinctive approach to migration management and its relations with neighbouring states.
Ould Meddou firmly dismissed claims of mass expulsions, calling them “greatly exaggerated.” He explained that such operations were routine security measures carried out by authorities in line with national and international obligations.
Highlighting Mauritania’s unique migration policy, he noted that the country’s second-largest city is a refugee hub. “The ratio of migrants and refugees to the local population is also notably high,” he added.
Addressing expulsion allegations, the spokesperson pointed to decades-old mobility agreements with neighbours. “Our circulation agreements with Senegal date back to 1972, and with Mali to 1963,” he said. He also underscored Mauritania’s efforts to ease cross-border movement, increasing entry points from 50 to 81, most of which cater to citizens of neighbouring countries like Mali, Senegal, and Guinea.
Despite these efforts, Ould Meddou lamented the low rate of migrant regularisation. Of the 130,000 arrivals recorded last year, only 7,000 sought to renew their residency permits, leaving approximately 123,000 in irregular status.
Mauritania has also made strides in combating migrant trafficking, with Ould Meddou noting, “Just last week, four trafficking networks involving five nationalities were dismantled.”
Responding to accusations that Mauritania serves as a “guardian” of Europe’s borders, he categorically rejected the notion.
“We cooperate with Europe to tackle irregular migration, a global challenge, but these claims are baseless,” he insisted.
He concluded by reaffirming Mauritania’s role as a host country for migrants, ensuring that any returns are conducted “in compliance with the law and with dignity.”
CA/te/lb/as/APA