Dutch study explores discreet expressions of atheism among Moroccan youth

A burgeoning demographic of non-religious Moroccans, particularly among the youth, is challenging societal norms and embracing subtle forms of activism to normalize their non-belief, reveals a new academic study from Radboud University Nijmegen in the Netherlands conducted by anthropologist Lena Richter.

Richter says that there are social pressures associated with openly declaring atheism in Morocco.

Moroccan atheists don’t publicly announce their stance, because doing so can have a multitude of social consequences.

The study draws on interviews with 50 Moroccan individuals aged 18 to 35, all from middle-class backgrounds in urban areas. 

Their experiences reveal that expressions of atheism often take the form of discreet actions.

These include getting tattoos, drinking alcohol at bars, eating and drinking during Ramadan, engaging in religious humor on social media, or abandoning customary religious practices like prayer or mosque attendance.

Interestingly, the research suggests a level of familial and societal tolerance towards these practices, contrasting with situations in other parts of the world like Europe. 

There, Arab atheists can be seen as a phenomenon and are often exploited by far-right groups who use them to demonize Islam. 

In Europe, there’s a risk of narratives from Moroccan non-religious individuals being manipulated by right-wing groups.

They might portray non-religious individuals as role models who left Islam, when that wasn’t their motivation at all.

Consequently, many Moroccan atheists avoid public discussions, whether they migrate to Europe or remain in their home country.

The study also highlights the role of social media in fostering discussions about atheism among Moroccan youth.

This has brought the topic to the forefront within Muslim communities, even though open conversations remain largely unwelcome within physical spaces.

“Moroccans are often seen as a homogeneous group – every Moroccan is a Muslim – and that, of course, is not true.

There are also many differences within the group of non-religious Moroccans. It matters a lot whether you have parents who are themselves less strictly religious or whether you come from a more conservative family,” Richter says.

The anthropologist further notes that “there are atheists who have strong views on religion, but also many people who still feel a connection with Islam and enjoy celebrating Ramadan with their family, for example. Belonging and solidarity also play a role in this.”

Richter says that “a sense of belonging to the community can make some non-religious individuals still feel a connection to Islam and maintain a spiritual link.”

The researcher intends to develop her research into a doctoral thesis to be discussed at Radboud University’s Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies.