Le parquet enquête déjà sur la réduction de l'aide aux mineurs migrants en Aragon et Vox recula: il est limité à trois centres

The Spanish Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the decision by the regional government of Aragón to cut weekly pocket money for unaccompanied foreign minors under its care. The move, initially announced by the regional administration, was later narrowed to three specific centers, Peralta de Alcofea, Torrero, and Movera, where the measure applies exclusively. This change came after initial claims that the policy affected all unaccompanied minors, prompting legal scrutiny over potential discrimination and violations of children's rights. The investigation, led jointly by prosecutors Teresa Gisbert and Miguel Ángel Aguilar, focuses on whether the policy violates the best interests of the child or constitutes a hate crime. Both officials have requested detailed documentation from the regional ministry responsible for deregulation, social welfare, and family affairs. They seek confirmation that the reduction in financial support is limited solely to the three specified centers and require justification for this differential treatment. Depending on the response, they will assess whether to pursue criminal action or file a judicial appeal if the policy is found to infringe upon minors' rights. The regional government, under the leadership of Alejandro Nolasco, has revised its explanation for the policy shift, citing security concerns. It argues that these three centers experience higher rates of violence and criminal activity, including assaults, fights, thefts, and extortion. Officials claim that cash distribution within the facilities increases the likelihood of such incidents, putting both staff and minors at risk. The ministry emphasizes that the policy does not target minors based on their nationality but rather addresses the heightened risks associated with these particular centers. It further states that the measure aligns with stricter internal policies agreed upon in a coalition agreement between the Popular Party (PP) and VOX, and expects future actions to continue reinforcing these measures. The ministry also highlights the need to improve the supervision and protection of minors, referencing a recent court ruling against the regional government. Earlier this year, the provincial court ordered Aragón to pay nearly 200,000 euros in compensation to a 94-year-old woman who was assaulted by two unaccompanied foreign minors under state care. The ruling, according to the ministry, called into question the effectiveness of the current system for protecting vulnerable individuals. Despite these arguments, the prosecution will examine whether the rationale provided by the regional government is legally sound. According to Gisbert, one of the key demands made to the regional authorities includes verifying the exact instructions behind the removal of the allowance, confirming whether the measure affects only unaccompanied minors, and requiring the government to justify the distinction. Additionally, the unit specializing in hate crimes is assessing whether the policy could constitute such a violation. The situation reflects broader tensions around the treatment of unaccompanied minors in Spain, particularly regarding resource allocation and safety protocols. While the regional government maintains that its actions are necessary to address real threats, critics argue that the policy disproportionately targets certain groups and fails to provide adequate support. Legal experts suggest that the ongoing investigation could set a precedent for how similar decisions are evaluated in the future, especially concerning the rights of minors in institutional settings.