A week after the violence in Torre Pacheco, in Spain's Murcia province, the Moroccan Organization for Human Rights (OMDH) has denounced what it calls «racist persecution against immigrants, the majority of whom are Moroccan nationals who have lived there for over two decades». In a statement issued Monday, the association voiced concern over «the rise of far-right racism, which targets migrants in Spain, threatens the social fabric, and reignites fear and hatred». The OMDH also warned of the potential impact of these events on Moroccan-Spanish relations, Spain's image among Moroccans, and the progress made in integrating immigrants into Spanish society. The group strongly condemned «racist acts committed by members of the far-right VOX party», along with «incitement to hatred by far-right-aligned media outlets and social media accounts». The organization further criticized how the far right exploits the issue of migration and minor incidents for political gain, turning them into campaign talking points. In response, the OMDH called on «democratic forces and human rights defenders in Spain» to stand up against what it described as a growing wave of racism and intolerance in all its forms. The NGO also urged the launch of a formal investigation into the racist incidents in Torre Pacheco, emphasizing the need to hold accountable both those who commit such acts and those who promote hate speech, discrimination, and xenophobia. The events of Monday, July 14, also drew a response from Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who declared that «racism is incompatible with democracy». He added, «What's happening in Torre Pacheco is a challenge for all of us. We must speak out, take firm action, and defend the values that unite us. Spain is a country of rights, not hatred».
