Morocco’s Unyielding Position on LGBTQ+ Agenda: A Legal and Cultural Stalemate

In Morocco, the promotion of the LGBTQ+ agenda remains a deeply controversial and illegal subject, highlighting a stark contrast between deeply ingrained cultural and religious values and a small yet vocal group of advocates calling for change. Public opinion overwhelmingly rejects LGBTQ+ rights, with Moroccan society's stance firmly aligned with the country's laws and religious beliefs. Recent events, particularly a controversial incident at the Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM), have reignited discussions surrounding this sensitive, often taboo topic.

The Marrakech International Film Festival Walkout

The Marrakech International Film Festival became a focal point of national debate when a film depicting an intimate relationship between two men led to a walkout by several audience members. Videos of the incident spread rapidly on social media, sparking both condemnation and support for the protest. For some, the scene clashed with their perception of Moroccan values, with some saying, "It’s reassuring to see people standing by their principles." On the other hand, others decried the walkout, arguing that it reflected intolerance and an unwillingness to engage with differing viewpoints.

Adding further complexity to the debate was the participation of Moroccan writer and filmmaker Abdellah Taia, an openly gay artist and a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. At the FIFM, Taia introduced his short film Cabo Negro, which explores themes of queer love and solitude. During a post-screening discussion, Taia spoke about his personal experiences, saying, "When I was young, in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, I was completely alone. There was no one to turn to, no one to love, no one who could understand what I was going through. This movie, Cabo Negro, is my way of creating the love and support I didn’t find. I don’t want today’s young Moroccan gays to go through the same loneliness I experienced. The love I never received, I put it into this film."

Taia’s remarks garnered mixed reactions. While some applauded his speech in support of the LGBTQ+ cause, many Moroccans viewed his statements as sinful, seeing them as a bold challenge to the country’s cultural and religious framework.

Public And Social Media Outrage

The controversy surrounding the FIFM incident has been amplified on social media, where reactions have ranged from strong condemnation to calls for greater inclusivity. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X have seen heated exchanges that reflect the deep polarization within Moroccan society. Some users expressed outrage, considering the walkout a necessary defense of their cultural and religious values. One user wrote, "Is this really being shown in our country, or am I dreaming?" Another added, "These issues, which are hidden in our society, are the poison that will destroy us if we allow them to spread. Boycotting these 'artistic' events is a religious, moral, and social duty."

Such comments underscore the intense opposition to LGBTQ+ issues within Morocco’s media and public sphere. The FIFM controversy is not an isolated incident. In 2020, a crackdown targeting gay men through the dating app Grindr led to widespread public outings, forcing many individuals into eviction, family rejection, and, in some cases, suicide.

Legal Framework And Social Norms

Homosexuality is criminalized in Morocco under Article 489 of the Penal Code, which prescribes imprisonment for six months to three years and fines ranging from MAD 200 ($20) to MAD 1,000 ($100) for engaging in same-sex acts. The law is deeply rooted in traditional interpretations of Islamic principles (Sharia law), which hold substantial influence over Morocco’s legal and social structures. These values permeate public attitudes and daily life in Morocco, where homosexuality is viewed as incompatible with the country’s cultural and religious norms.

While some younger Moroccans and a few advocacy groups call for reform, the criminalization of homosexuality remains firmly entrenched. Calls for reform are met with fierce resistance from traditionalist factions, making it unlikely that the legal and social treatment of LGBTQ+ issues will shift in the near future.

Political Reactions

Moroccan political figures have weighed in on the LGBTQ+ debate, with some expressing concerns about the influence of LGBTQ+ movements. In August 2023, Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi warned of the potential cultural and societal consequences of the growing LGBTQ+ presence in global discussions, particularly in Western nations.

In December 2021, Abdelilah Benkirane, leader of the Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD) and former head of government, asserted that homosexuality was contrary to Moroccan values. He emphasized that under his leadership, the party would firmly oppose any attempts to decriminalize same-sex relationships, stating, "We will not strive for homosexuals to publicly declare the disobedience of God." Both figures have framed their positions as a defense of Morocco’s cultural and religious identity.

While conservative perspectives remain dominant, there are some leftist movements advocating for broader reforms, such as repealing Article 490 of the Penal Code, which criminalizes sex outside of marriage. These groups argue that such laws perpetuate stigma and hinder personal freedoms.

Morocco Stands Unyielding on LGBTQ+ Debate

Despite growing calls for reform, Morocco’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues remains steadfast and deeply rooted in its cultural and religious principles. As a religiously conservative nation, Morocco views the preservation of these values as non-negotiable, leaving little room for change in the legal and social treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. While some activists continue to push for recognition and inclusion, their efforts are met with fierce resistance from both societal norms and political leadership.

For many in Morocco, these issues are seen as fundamentally incompatible with the country's identity. Discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights often serve to reinforce, rather than challenge, the prevailing cultural and religious status quo.