At a roundtable meeting on migration diplomacy in Dakar, Senegalese and Spanish officials reaffirmed the strength of their cooperation, which is underpinned by more than thirty bilateral agreements. Through initiatives such as circular migration, protecting workers and strengthening the legal framework, the two countries are demonstrating their commitment to consolidating a strategic partnership in the face of contemporary migration challenges. 

On 10 February, diplomats, experts, and administrative officials from the Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs, and Senegalese Abroad gathered in Dakar to examine the strategic partnership between Senegal and Spain on migration issues. The meeting was more than just a discussion forum; it showcased the robust diplomatic relationship that Dakar and Madrid have cultivated over the years against the backdrop of significant human, economic, and political issues.

The roundtable discussion, held under the theme ‘Diplomacy and Migration: The Senegal–Spain Partnership, Issues and Challenges’, emphasised the central role of circular migration in bilateral cooperation. Addressing an audience of institutional representatives, Ambassador Ibrahima Cissé, Chief of Staff to the Minister, emphasised the department’s leading role in defining and implementing Senegal’s migration diplomacy. The protection of Senegalese nationals abroad, the promotion of regular migration channels and the recognition of the diaspora all demonstrate a political commitment to managing migration flows rather than merely tolerating them.

A key point of discussion was the observation that relations between Dakar and Madrid are underpinned by a comprehensive legal framework. Abdoulaye Keïta, Director for Europe, America and Oceania, pointed out that the two countries have more than 33 bilateral agreements in place, covering diverse areas such as security, transport, the economy, tourism, agriculture, and of course, migration. This institutional architecture is evidence of multifaceted cooperation, with migration forming part of a broader partnership.

The message from the Spanish authorities was both complimentary and pragmatic. Santiago Yerga, Spain’s Director General of Migration, commended the Senegalese authorities on the excellent standard of their work, especially in selecting and supervising the seasonal workers sent to Spain. Circular migration, presented as a model of concerted management, is based on rigorous worker selection and structured support. Madrid’s goal is to ensure transparent and efficient recruitment, while Dakar aims to guarantee safe conditions for its nationals when they leave and return.

However, beyond the figures and procedures, this roundtable discussion revealed a broader diplomatic dynamic. At a time when many regions are tightening their migration policies, Senegal and Spain are demonstrating their commitment to prioritising dialogue and consultation. The development of an explanatory manual detailing the steps for recruiting agricultural workers is an example of this search for clarity and predictability.

At the heart of this lies the philosophy of a balanced partnership, reconciling the needs of the Spanish labour market with the economic aspirations of Senegalese workers, all the while respecting the sovereignty of both states. The meeting in Dakar served as a reminder that migration diplomacy is now a key pillar of relations between the two countries and will become increasingly important in future.

This cooperative approach also forms part of a broader context of migration policy reform in Spain. In Madrid, the government has demonstrated a clear commitment to combining regulation and integration.

Exceptional regularisation

At a press conference, Elma Saiz, the Spanish Minister for Migration, announced an exceptional regularisation measure. Those who are in an irregular situation, have been in Spain for at least five months by the end of 2025 and have no criminal record will be eligible to apply for a residence permit via a fast-track procedure. Asylum applications submitted before the end of 2025 will also be covered.

Applications can be submitted from April until 30 June. The Spanish government has committed to processing applications within three months at most. Residence permits issued will be valid for one year for adults or five years for children and will allow holders to work in all sectors and throughout the country from day one.

For Elma Saiz, this initiative is part of a ‘migration model based on human rights and integration’, which she believes can coexist with economic growth and social cohesion. Spain indeed boasts solid economic indicators, with growth reaching 2.9% in 2025 and unemployment falling below 10% in the fourth quarter of the year.

Under Pedro Sánchez’s government, Madrid is pursuing a policy of controlled openness. The country now has almost seven million foreign residents, accounting for 14.3% of its total population of just over 49 million.

In the view of the Senegalese authorities, this context highlights the importance of structured and coordinated migration partnerships between Dakar and Madrid.