Criticism mounts as influencers exploit Morocco quake tragedy for virtual fame

As Moroccans and quake victims alike are still grappling with the poignant aftermath of the Al Haouz tragedy, a group of social media “influencers” with large followings swarmed affected areas. 

These influencers’ unscrupulous behaviors and disregard for the sensitivity of the current situation have come under fire.

Social media users mounted scathing criticisms against those who seem to be only concerned with making content, increasing their following and flaunting their philanthropy.

The hashtag “Crisis profiteers” is trending in Morocco to include influencers who seem to be reveling in, what one X user described, “cosplaying poverty, glamorizing tragedy.” 

Some internet users took to social media to voice their indignation and concern haranguing Moroccan influencers for seemingly coaxing victims, especially children, into taking pictures and videos. These users stressed the notions of preserving the victims’ dignity and upholding their right to mourning peacefully. 

One X user said “amidst the tragedy of the Morocco earthquake, some influencers seem more focused on gaining followers than truly caring for the victims. Let’s remember, dignity is not a commodity, and compassion should never be a spectacle.” 

The circulating images of children being kissed and embraced sent massive waves of shock across the virtual world. Moroccans are urging influencers to refrain from trafficking in the victims’ affliction. 

Rachid, a researcher who spoke to Hespress EN under the condition of anonymity, elaborated on the current contention saying that “ the problem is not in documenting food and what people are sending because the donors would want proof. The problem is the consent of individuals in distress.” 

Rachid further added “consent is such a weird concept to most Moroccans, but it needs to be introduced forcefully to these influencers. Putting a camera and recording how a “native Amazigh” person is still joking and laughing about the people dying should not be taken lightly. You are forcing them to entertain you, to be strong and laugh with you although everyone knows they have no capacity to do so.’

Commenting on the footage showing influencers and other people sharing meals with the victims, Rachid said “They feel forced to serve you tea and be hospitable because you mention that they are “hospitality incarnate” 24/7 with a camera. we cannot even begin to talk about the constant grooming and sexualizing of children.” 

In this regard, the law firmly upholds the right of individuals to privacy.  The Moroccan Criminal Code has been amended by Law No. 103.13 to include articles 1-447, 2-447, and 3-447, which relate to the protection of the right to privacy. 

According to article 1-447, “Anyone who, without the consent of the person concerned, disseminates, records or transmits, by any means whatsoever, words, images or sounds of a private nature, shall be punished by imprisonment for one to five years and a fine of MAD 5,000 to MAD 50,000.”

The content of these provisions serves as an affirmation of Article 24 of the Moroccan Constitution, which states that “everyone has the right to the protection of their private life.” 

The provisions also align with Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which declares that “One should not be subjected to arbitrary interference in their private life, family matters, residence or correspondence, nor should there be campaigns that touch upon their honor and reputation.” 

Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights also stipulates that “no one shall be subjected to arbitrary or unlawful interference with their privacy, family, home, or correspondence.”

While laws are in order to ensure that dignity and privacy are upheld, influencers continue to breach them, and their excessive content during the quake attest to that.