Report: 33% of Moroccans deem freedom of expression unguaranteed in the Kingdom

Around one-third of Moroccans (33%) believe freedom of expression is not guaranteed in the Kingdom, with 9% deeming it entirely unguaranteed at all, according to a recent report published on Wednesday by the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis (MIPA).

The study, which is part of the “Freedom of Expression” project conducted jointly by Internews, the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis (MIPA), and the Moroccan Forum for Young Journalists (FMJJ), evaluates freedom of expression for the period between September and December 2023.

The findings indicated that Moroccans hold varying viewpoints on freedom of expression in the country, with a total of 48% of individuals seeing it guaranteed.

In contrast, a mass of the Moroccan population believes that some challenges and restrictions limit its full realization.

The report further highlighted the existence of barriers that hinder freedom of expression, creating a sense of insecurity among Moroccan citizens.

It noted that over half of Moroccans (51%) feel insecure when expressing their opinions in the Kingdom, with an additional 12% revealed feeling entirely insecure.

Only 21% of Moroccans reported having a sense of security when exercising this right, and 5% feel very secure, while over one-tenth couldn’t decide.

Freedom of expression, according to the same study, holds significant importance for Moroccan citizens as they consider it to be a fundamental human right.

While some may deny its significance or be unaware of its existence, the majority of Moroccan citizens understand the importance of this right in upholding democratic values and fostering open discourse in society.

The findings were based on a field study, where the MIPA employed a mixed research methodology to paint a thorough picture of the current situation and to gauge citizens’ attitudes about freedom of expression and access to information in Morocco.