Migrant rights in Morocco between reconciling security and humanism

Abstract

Morocco occupies a pivotal position in global migration flows, acting simultaneously as a country of origin, transit, and destination. This article critically examines Morocco’s migration policy, which attempts to reconcile international human rights obligations with national security imperatives. By analyzing legislative texts such as Law n°02-03 on irregular migration, Law n°27-14 on human trafficking, and the delayed asylum bill (n°66-17), alongside institutional strategies like the National Strategy on Immigration and Asylum (SNIA), The paper highlights the delicate balance Morocco seeks to maintain between its humanitarian commitments and the legitimate imperatives of migration governance and national security. Morocco has undertaken significant legal and diplomatic initiatives, including hosting the Global Compact for Migration in Marrakech and launching two major regularization campaigns aimed at improving the situation of migrants residing on its territory. These actions reflect a clear political will to engage with international human rights standards and promote a more inclusive migration policy. Nevertheless, certain structural and operational challenges persist. Among them are the need to strengthen institutional capacities, to provide greater legal clarity for asylum seekers, and to further align migration management tools with human rights safeguards. While Morocco clearly affirms its commitment to a rights-based approach in both its discourse and strategic frameworks, the practical implementation of these principles remains a work in progress. As such, efforts to harmonize security objectives with the full protection of migrants’ rights continue to evolve, requiring ongoing dialogue, investment, and inter-institutional coordination.