Unjust Imprisonment of Ibtissame 'Betty' Lachgar
Ibtissame "Betty" Lachgar, a prominent Moroccan feminist and LGBTI activist, is currently facing wrongful imprisonment and prosecution in Morocco. Her legal troubles began when she posted a photograph on social media wearing a T-shirt that read, "Allah is lesbian." In August 2025, this post led to her arrest, and shortly after, she was sentenced to two and a half years in prison along with a monetary fine, under the charges of "insulting Islam." This troubling case raises significant concerns about the state of free speech and human rights in Morocco.
The content of Lachgar's social media post falls well within the bounds of protected expression according to international human rights standards, which safeguard the right to free speech. Such rights can only be restricted in exceptional circumstances, typically when there is incitement to violence. In the case of Betty Lachgar, the actions taken against her by law enforcement and the judicial system represent a blatant violation of Morocco's human rights obligations, illustrating a concerning trend towards the suppression of dissent and freedom of expression.
Call to Action for Her Immediate Release
Currently, Ibtissame Lachgar is enduring solitary confinement, and her health condition is deteriorating. She is in urgent need of medical attention, requiring an operation that has been repeatedly denied by authorities who have dismissed her requests for provisional release on medical grounds. It is critical that her voice is heard and that her rights are defended, as her imprisonment is solely a result of her exercising her right to free expression.
We strongly urge concerned individuals to take action by writing respectful letters to Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, demanding the immediate release of Ibtissame "Betty" Lachgar and the annulment of her unjust conviction. Additionally, it is paramount to ensure that she receives appropriate medical care while she remains incarcerated. Such letters can be addressed as follows:
Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch
Palais Royal Touarga
Rabat 10070
Morocco
(Salutation: Dear Prime Minister)
It is also advisable to send a copy of your correspondence to the Moroccan Embassy in Berlin. The contact details are:
Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco
H.E. Mrs. Zohour Alaoui
Niederwallstraße 39
10117 Berlin
Fax: 030 – 20 61 24 20
Email: kontakt@botschaft-marokko.de
In this critical moment, your voice can help shine a light on the injustice faced by Ibtissame Lachgar. For more information, please refer to the complete details on amnesty.de.
