The Silence of the Moroccan Government Amidst Mass Migration
In the wake of an unprecedented wave of mass migration, the Moroccan government, along with the Ministry of Interior and the National Security Delegation, has chosen to remain silent. This silence is more astonishing than the historic march of desperate migrants seeking a better life. How can a government act this way in a state of emergency? They refuse to explain what transpired in Ceuta, leaving the world to ponder the reasons behind the sight of thousands of individuals filled with despair or hope for a brighter future. What has transformed Morocco into a country that drives its citizens away?
This situation is anything but normal; the nation is not embroiled in war, is not threatened by famine, nor does it face civil conflict. In fact, Morocco stands as one of the few secure nations in a region rife with turmoil. So, what is the underlying issue? After two weeks of silence following this exodus, the Minister of Justice finally spoke, blaming Spain for opening its doors and holding it accountable for the repatriation of minors. Yet, what has Morocco done in response? What possible benefit would Spain gain from welcoming 70,000 individuals?
From a diplomatic standpoint, regardless of the extent of Spain's culpability, it has not directly accused Morocco or assigned it any responsibility. This leads to a crucial question: what is worse, the government's silence or its subsequent statements? The reality remains stark, as the neglect faced by migrants represents a humanitarian tragedy. Spain has seemingly abandoned its responsibilities, potentially delivering a harsh lesson to those dreaming of better lives: the other shore may not be any kinder. All we can demand is accountability from our own leaders. However, given past experiences, it appears that even a modicum of accountability may be a distant hope.
The Contemporary Crisis in Morocco
We find ourselves in one of the darkest periods of contemporary Moroccan history, marked by the regression of the "democratic process," the resurgence of authoritarian governance, and the overwhelming presence of administrative parties. Journalists who dare to voice dissent often find themselves imprisoned for simply expressing a thought outside the confines of accepted discourse. We once believed we had reached the nadir of despair, a state that, albeit grim, was still preferable to the chaos observed in the region. Yet, that belief has been shattered. As we await elections that promise no real change—not because change cannot emerge from the ballot box, but because genuine transformation seems unattainable in today’s Morocco.
Moroccans have never been engulfed in such desperation as they are now. If given the choice, millions would emigrate, not solely due to economic hardships or lack of employment opportunities, but rather because of the pervasive corruption that has extinguished any hopes for a brighter future. Citizens no longer dream of a better tomorrow, as their recent past was significantly better. Suddenly, they find themselves in a situation devoid of opportunities for improvement, facing a government and officials who display indifference to the plight of the populace, leaving them to suffer, perish, or flee.
When the youth of "Generation Z" took to the streets, they articulated a clear message: corruption is eroding the country. Their primary rallying cry was for the eradication of corruption, which they perceive as vast and overwhelming, burdening the citizens beneath its weight. They witness its growth from educational institutions where certain groups gain access to prestigious schools despite failing to meet the required standards, extending into master's programs, doctoral degrees, and positions which, if not reserved for the relatives of the powerful, are openly sold.
Following the changes brought about in 2011, the populace experienced a period of optimism and hope for social justice and a better future. Even those who had left the country years prior expressed regret for abandoning it too soon and missing the chance to be part of a historic transformation. However, conditions gradually worsened with the decline of freedoms throughout the region, and while Morocco had always been a positive island in this context, that distinction is now fading. It appears that those at the helm are indifferent to the deteriorating circumstances occurring in neighboring Maghreb countries marked by oppression and disregard for the citizenry.
Can economic development truly thrive in authoritarian states? In some cases, yes, but these instances are exceptional, with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Morocco is not China, which, while lacking political pluralism, is founded on an ideology that detests corruption and combats it effectively, promoting a culture of hard work and meritocracy. In contrast, the Moroccan environment encourages unearned advancement, exacerbating inequalities. A Morocco structured in such a way does not wish for its citizens to remain, as it has ceased to be a homeland for them, transforming instead into a sanctuary for the privileged.
As reported by alaraby.co.uk.
