The Spanish government is in a legal standoff with the Canary Islands over a new protocol affecting the reception of unaccompanied migrant children.

The protocol, introduced by Canary Islands President Fernando Clavijo, mandates extensive bureaucratic procedures before children can be placed in care facilities, potentially leaving them in police custody for extended periods.

This move has been criticized by the central government and the Canary Islands' own Superior Prosecutor's Office, which argues it discriminates against migrant children and violates their rights.

The central government is considering legal action, including involving the Constitutional Court, to challenge the protocol.

Meanwhile, the Canary Islands are overwhelmed with over 5,200 minors, highlighting the urgent need for a coordinated national response to the migrant crisis.