**Rabat, Morocco** – A wave of youth-led demonstrations across Morocco, initially ignited by grievances over underfunded healthcare and education, has culminated in widespread accusations of arbitrary detention, brutal police misconduct, and severe legal repercussions for hundreds of young individuals, including minors. Human rights organisations are voicing grave concerns over the government's response, which they contend has disproportionately targeted peaceful protesters and undermined fundamental legal principles.
The demonstrations, which gained momentum in late September and early October, saw hundreds, some as young as 12 years old, taking to the streets to voice their discontent. However, what began as a call for improved public services has seemingly devolved into a crackdown, with reports emerging of protesters being subjected to harsh treatment while in police custody. Families of the detained describe harrowing experiences, with one mother recounting how her son, apprehended while simply having dinner at a snack bar, suffered significant injuries, including the loss of several teeth.
The situation escalated dramatically on October 1st in Lqliâa, a town near Agadir, where a protest reportedly turned deadly. Security forces are accused of opening fire, resulting in the tragic deaths of three demonstrators and leaving 14 others wounded by firearms. These incidents have further amplified the alarm bells being sounded by domestic and international human rights bodies.
The Moroccan Association of Human Rights (AMDH) and Amnesty International have been at the forefront of documenting these alleged abuses. Souad Brahma, President of AMDH, has highlighted particularly disturbing accounts of harassment directed at female protesters, detailing instances of "acts of harassment, insults, and crude and sexist remarks," alongside allegations of inappropriate physical contact. The sheer scale of the government's response is evident in the prosecution of over 2,400 individuals in connection with the protests. The legal fallout has been swift and severe, with dozens receiving substantial prison sentences, some as long as 15 years, raising questions about due process and the presumption of innocence.
Further compounding these concerns are reports of irregularities in the legal proceedings. Critics point to the alleged absence of legal counsel during hearings, insufficient investigations into the allegations of abuse, and a perceived disregard for the fundamental right to a fair trial. The prolonged detention of some individuals, with one 18-year-old reportedly held for over two months, underscores the gravity of the situation.
The government of Morocco has yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing the entirety of these allegations, though it has previously maintained that its actions are aimed at preserving public order. However, the growing body of evidence and the persistent appeals from rights advocates paint a troubling picture of a state response that may be exceeding the bounds of proportionality.
As Morocco prepares to host the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations, these accusations cast a shadow over the nation's human rights record and its international standing. The long-term implications for freedom of expression and assembly within the country remain a significant concern for civil society organisations and international observers alike. The fate of hundreds of detained youths hangs in the balance, with the hope that a thorough and impartial investigation will bring clarity and accountability to these deeply troubling events.