The Spanish Constitutional Court has accepted a challenge from the national government against the Canary Islands' protocol for handling unaccompanied migrant minors.
This protocol, which restricted NGOs from receiving minors directly from the police, was suspended due to concerns over potential violations of fundamental rights.
The Canary Islands government argued that the protocol was necessary to manage the influx of minors and protect them without discrimination.
However, the court found that the protocol could delay immediate assistance, as required by child protection laws.
The regional government has been pushing for greater state involvement in managing the arrival of minors, citing the state's exclusive authority over immigration and asylum matters.
The suspension highlights ongoing tensions between regional and national authorities over immigration responsibilities.