Despite shortcomings, 77% of Moroccans satisfied with Govt's response to Haouz quake

77% of Moroccans expressed satisfaction with the government’s response to the devastating Al Haouz earthquake of September 2023, according to the findings of a recent survey by MIPA institute.

However, a significant minority (22%) voiced concerns, highlighting areas for improvement. While 46% of respondents were “Very Satisfied” and another 31% surveyed being “Satisfied Somehow,” 9% expressed being “Not Satisfied Somehow” and 13% were “Not Satisfied at All.”

Interestingly, the survey found a gender gap in satisfaction levels. Women were slightly more likely to be “Very Satisfied” (47%) compared to men (45%), while exhibiting lower rates of “Not Satisfied at All” (9% for women vs. 13% for men).  

Regional variations also emerged. Satisfaction peaked in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region (54% “Very Satisfied”), followed by Casablanca-Settat (48%) and Marrakesh-Safi (42%). The Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region surveyed the lowest satisfaction rate (35% “Very Satisfied”).  

The impact of the earthquake itself was unequally felt. While 88% of respondents were not directly affected, 12% surveyed experiencing its direct consequences.  

Support for those affected also varied. Only 11% of directly impacted individuals received assistance from the government, while 33% received aid from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and philanthropists. 

Opinions diverged regarding the adequacy of government support. Roughly half (56%) expressed varying degrees of satisfaction, while a significant 44% felt the government’s support was insufficient. 

Reasons for this could include inconsistencies in aid distribution, unequal access to assistance, or the varying impact of the earthquake on individuals.

The survey also explored public engagement in supporting victims. While a substantial portion (64%) surveyed contributing efforts, a significant 52% did not directly offer their time and effort. This suggests potential gaps in community involvement or awareness of how to help.

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) emerged as a bright spot. A remarkable 97% of respondents expressed high satisfaction with their contributions during rescue operations and in aiding victims, highlighting their effectiveness and responsiveness in disaster relief.  

However, the survey also reveals concerning issues. A staggering 90% of respondents perceived theft and manipulation of aid as widespread or very widespread, indicating significant problems with accountability and transparency. 

Similarly, high proportions of respondents expressed concerns about the monopolization of aid distribution (76%), the spread of fake news (85%), and exploitation of various kinds during the crisis.