The media campaigns targeting Morocco have become a familiar occurrence, but what truly raises eyebrows is their timing. Observers of these campaigns over the past decade can recognize a pattern: they often resurface around significant national events or after Morocco achieves notable diplomatic, economic, or strategic successes that bolster its regional and international standing. A recent example includes the revival of the "Pegasus" file by certain French outlets, which invites a crucial question: why does this particular narrative resurface every time Morocco breaks new ground on the global stage? Moreover, why does it reappear at such sensitive moments, particularly when Moroccan-French relations are experiencing unprecedented dynamism, highlighted by the recent visit of the French Prime Minister to Rabat accompanied by ten ministers? This visit was part of the High Joint Committee's activities, leading to the signing of a significant package of strategic agreements in areas like investment, energy, transportation, industry, and security cooperation.
The coincidence of this media campaign with such a critical political event, just days ahead of the Throne Day celebrations, raises questions about the implications of its timing. Historical evidence indicates that the targeting of Morocco's image in international media often coincides with national successes or major symbolic milestones, suggesting that the timing itself is integral to the media message being conveyed. Morocco has previously encountered similar campaigns across various issues, ranging from the "Pegasus" affair to "Qatar Gate," not to mention the Panama Papers, legal and media battles surrounding agricultural agreements and fisheries agreements with the European Union, and campaigns aimed at Moroccan officials and sovereign institutions under various guises. Despite the different titles and contexts, these campaigns share a common denominator: a unified timing, similar rhetoric, and often, the same media outlets.
This is not about questioning press freedom or the right of media to investigate and critique, a right enshrined in democratic principles. However, it is legitimate to question the motives when certain outlets recycle the same narratives without presenting new data or definitive judicial rulings that alter the situation, while also failing to provide a platform for responses or facts that might contradict the proposed narrative. In recent years, Morocco has engaged in legal battles across several European countries to defend its institutions and officials, resorting to the courts in response to allegations perceived as damaging to its reputation and the credibility of its institutions. These legal pathways have shown that the judiciary, rather than media campaigns, serves as the appropriate arena for resolving such disputes, and many media claims do not withstand the scrutiny of judicial standards.
What makes the analysis of this phenomenon even more pertinent is the reminder of a statement made by His Majesty King Mohammed VI during the opening of the legislative session on October 10, 2014. He said, "O Allah, increase our envious ones, because the more envious we have, the more achievements and blessings we will have." This statement was not merely a rhetorical flourish but an anticipatory reading of the nature of the phase Morocco was entering, where success itself would become a target. In the same address, the King delineated the boundaries between freedom of expression and responsible criticism, on one hand, and nihilism and disloyalty to the homeland, on the other. He emphasized the need for a strong civil society that plays a constructive role and acts as a counter-power, rather than as a tool for smear campaigns or settling scores.
Moreover, his assertion, "We know who we are, where we are headed, and our capabilities, along with the challenges and difficulties we face," remains one of the clearest expressions of Morocco's state philosophy in addressing crises. Confidence in the path ahead does not equate to denying challenges; it also signifies a refusal to be beholden to transient media campaigns, regardless of their magnitude. Today, as Morocco's stature in Africa grows and its influence in security, migration, energy, and international investments increases, it has naturally entered the realms of geopolitical and media competition. However, this competition must remain governed by professional ethics and respect for journalistic standards, avoiding selectivity or the manipulation of timing to serve political agendas.
The true response to these campaigns lies not in slogans, but in continued construction, strengthening the state of institutions, relying on the judiciary, and presenting facts to national and international public opinion in a language of law, numbers, and documentation. Experience has shown that what endures is not the noise of headlines but the strength of nations in protecting their institutions, the resilience of their societies, and their ability to transform any targeting attempt into an opportunity to enhance internal unity. Therefore, the most dangerous aspect of these campaigns is not their content but their attempt to influence Morocco's image during pivotal achievements. Nevertheless, recent history has demonstrated that the Kingdom emerges from such episodes stronger, more present, and more confident in its path, as genuine legitimacy is not crafted by articles but by tangible achievements on the ground, trust from citizens, and respect from international partners.
As reported by hespress.com.
