Human trafficking on the rise in Morocco as experts warn of dangerous trends

Human trafficking is becoming increasingly widespread in Morocco, fueled by instability in the Sahel and growing migration flows toward the kingdom, security experts warn.

Marking World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, analysts said Morocco’s strategic location between Africa and Europe has made it a major transit, and at times destination, country for trafficking networks.

Despite government efforts, official data shows the crime is on the rise. The Public Prosecutor’s Office recorded 110 new human trafficking cases in 2023, a 23.6% jump from 2022. Out of these, 77 involved individual suspects, 27 were tied to multiple offenders, and six were linked to organized networks.

Mohammed Chakir, a researcher in security affairs, told Hespress AR that ongoing unrest in the Sahel has allowed armed groups and criminal organizations to expand their influence.

“Many African countries south of the Sahara face economic hardship and weak border controls, creating fertile ground for trafficking,” he said. “These networks use Morocco as a gateway to Europe, and trafficking has even become a source of funding for extremist groups.”

Moroccan authorities have introduced new legal tools to counter the trend. A recent amendment to the criminal procedure law now allows prosecutors to authorize phone tapping and monitor electronic communications in cases of trafficking, irregular migration, and child exploitation.

Abderrahmane Mekkaoui, another security expert, said Morocco has built a comprehensive strategy to fight trafficking, including cooperation with the European Union, the United States, and Canada. He noted that the Interior Ministry is working to reinforce border security and intelligence sharing.

“Human trafficking is now the third most profitable illegal trade worldwide, after drugs and weapons,” Mekkaoui warned. “It poses a real threat to the safety and stability of the entire North African region.”