Survey: Most Moroccans tolerant toward migrants but cautious about expanding immigration

A new survey by Afrobarometer found that most Moroccans hold tolerant attitudes toward migrants, though many remain hesitant about increasing immigration levels.

According to the survey, 78% of respondents said they would not mind having foreign workers or migrants as neighbors, while 22% opposed the idea. Meanwhile, 56% expressed acceptance of refugees living nearby, compared with 39% who said they would not welcome them.

The findings suggest socioeconomic and demographic divides in attitudes toward migration. Wealthier Moroccans and young people showed greater openness to both migrants and refugees, while women were generally less welcoming than men.

Perceptions of migrants’ impact on the economy were mixed. About 36% of respondents said foreign workers contribute positively to Morocco’s economy, while 21% viewed their influence as somewhat or very negative.

Despite widespread personal tolerance, more than half of those surveyed (51%) said the government should reduce the number of foreign job seekers allowed to enter the country or stop their entry altogether. Another 38% were comfortable with current immigration levels. Similarly, 51% supported cutting back on refugee arrivals, and 9% favored banning them entirely.

The survey also found that four in ten Moroccans have considered emigrating. Interest in migration was especially high among young people (64%), economically vulnerable groups (74%), and unemployed citizens (69%). Europe was the preferred destination, followed by North America.

Afrobarometer’s report noted that Morocco has become a “key player in migration governance” regionally and globally. Since adopting its National Strategy for Immigration and Asylum in 2014, the kingdom has launched regularization campaigns granting migrants legal status and access to public services and political participation. Morocco also co-signed the Global Compact for Migration and supports the African Union’s migration agenda.

Still, challenges persist. Morocco hosts around 19,000 asylum seekers and refugees and continues to struggle with integrating them into the labor market, enforcing anti-human-trafficking laws, and managing internal displacement linked to drought and floods. The World Bank has highlighted the need for better coordination between migration flows and development priorities.

The report added that environmental pressures and social norms also influence Moroccans’ own migration choices. While women are disproportionately affected by drought and water shortages, men are more likely to migrate for work, domestically or abroad. Those who remain often rely on remittances sent home by relatives overseas.