Morocco's Comprehensive Counterterrorism Strategy Praised by U.S. State Department

The U.S. State Department has commended Morocco's all-encompassing approach to combating terrorism and violent extremism, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to regional and international cooperation in addressing these global threats.

In its 2023 Annual Global Terrorism Report, published Thursday, the U.S. State Department emphasized Morocco's steadfast efforts in implementing a multifaceted strategy against terrorism. This approach integrates vigilant security measures, robust regional and international partnerships, and innovative policies targeting radicalization.

Prioritizing Economic and Human Development

The report underscored that Morocco's strategy, which balances counterterrorism initiatives with economic and human development priorities, has continued to mitigate terrorism risks effectively. The approach integrates measures that address socio-economic factors contributing to extremism while fostering stability and growth.

Significant Counterterrorism Efforts in 2023

In 2023, Moroccan security forces, under the coordination of the Ministry of the Interior, arrested 56 individuals linked to terrorist activities. Of these, 40 were isolated actors, while the remaining 16 were part of six distinct terrorist cells. These efforts were bolstered by intelligence gathering, policing, and international collaboration.

The Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), operating under the Directorate General of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) and supervised by the public prosecutor, played a pivotal role in these operations.

U.S.-Morocco Security Collaboration

The report highlighted Morocco's active participation in U.S.-sponsored programs aimed at enhancing technical and investigative capacities. These initiatives focused on areas such as financial investigations, intelligence analysis, forensics, aviation security, and cybersecurity.

Border security remains a top priority for Moroccan authorities, with the country’s airport authorities recognized for their advanced capabilities in detecting fraudulent documents.

Addressing Terror Financing

Morocco's membership in the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) and the Egmont Group underscores its commitment to combating terror financing. In February 2023, Morocco's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list was a notable achievement, reflecting substantial reforms in risk-based monitoring and the implementation of effective sanctions for non-compliance.

Regional and International Engagement

The Kingdom’s active engagement in global counterterrorism efforts is evident in its membership in the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh and co-chairing of the Africa Focus Group. Morocco also plays a key role in the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF) and, alongside the European Union, launched a GCTF initiative in 2023 focusing on education to prevent violent extremism.

Tackling Violent Extremism and Radicalization

Morocco’s comprehensive approach to countering violent extremism emphasizes economic and human development while addressing the ideological roots of radicalization. The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has developed educational programs targeting 50,000 Moroccan imams and mourchidates (female religious guides). The Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, located in Rabat, extends its educational outreach to imams from West Africa.

The Rabita Mohammadia of Ulama (a council of religious scholars) contributes to anti-radicalization efforts through academic research, curriculum reform, and youth-focused outreach on religious and social issues.

Additionally, since 2017, approximately 300 inmates have benefited from the Moussalaha program, a deradicalization initiative led by the General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration in collaboration with various government departments.

Morocco’s multifaceted strategy, blending development, security, and international cooperation, stands as a model for comprehensive counterterrorism efforts. The U.S. State Department's recognition reinforces the Kingdom's role as a key player in global security initiatives.