Moroccan Community Flourishes in Belgium
Recent statistics reveal a significant trend within the Moroccan community in Belgium, highlighting their successful integration into Belgian society. A substantial 75% of individuals of Moroccan origin, approximately 269,000 people, have acquired Belgian citizenship, marking one of the highest naturalization rates among foreign communities in the country. This demographic group constitutes the largest non-European Union community in Belgium, with around 359,491 residents originating from Morocco, representing 12% of all foreign nationals in Belgium. The findings stem from an analysis conducted by migration researcher Hassan Bentaleb, utilizing data from Belgium’s federal migration center, Myria.
Migration Trends and Naturalization Rates
The integration of Moroccans into Belgian society is particularly notable in urban and industrial regions where they predominantly reside. Notable concentrations of Moroccan Belgians can be found in Flanders, Brussels, and Wallonia, with estimates indicating that around 109,000 live in Flanders and a similar number in Brussels. In 2024, Belgium welcomed 7,404 Moroccan migrants, which accounted for 4% of total immigration, positioning Morocco as the sixth-largest source of newcomers. This influx represents an increase from previous years, reflecting a recovery in migration trends after a period of decline. Furthermore, Morocco ranked second among non-EU countries for first residence permits issued in Belgium, surpassing Turkey, Syria, and Afghanistan. The report also highlights the multi-generational aspect of the Moroccan community, with the average age of Moroccan-origin citizens in Belgium ranging from 43 to 46 years, indicating that naturalization rates are particularly elevated among those born in Belgium. This evolution underscores the ongoing commitment of the Moroccan community to establish their roots and contribute positively to Belgian society.
As reported by northafricapost.com.
