Morocco: A Nation in Crisis from a Catastrophic Earthquake

Earthquake Strikes Morocco

On the night of September 8, 2023, Morocco was hit by a catastrophic earthquake of 6.8 magnitude, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The epicenter was located in the High Atlas mountain range. This is approximately 72 kilometers (44.7 miles) southwest of Marrakech, a city of around 840,000 people. While its impact was felt as far north as Casablanca, the earthquake wreaked havoc in towns and villages nestled near the base of the Atlas Mountains. Sadly, the heart and suburbs of Marrakech were destroyed.

(Picture provided by *The New York Times*)

Casualties and Damage

The earthquake’s toll has been staggering, with casualties exceeding 2,900. Most of it is concentrated in hard-to-reach mountainous regions. The disaster inflicted significant damage on infrastructures, resulting in the destruction of at least 59,674 houses. That means that 32% of housing is now gone. In response to this unprecedented catastrophe, Morocco has unveiled an ambitious post-earthquake reconstruction plan. They are pledging an investment of 120 billion dirhams over the next five years. The plan focuses on urgently needed infrastructure upgrades and recovery efforts. The affected regions are among Morocco’s most economically disadvantaged. These are areas marked by a lack of proper roads and essential public services. This economic vulnerability made the earthquake’s impact even worse for people, as many remote villages struggled to access assistance.

Morocco, although prone to seismic activity, has not experienced an earthquake of this magnitude since 1960. Back then over 12,000 lives were tragically lost. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, such powerful earthquakes in the region are uncommon but not impossible. Since 1900, nine earthquakes with a magnitude of 5 or higher have been recorded in the area, although none had a magnitude exceeding 6.

The Moroccan government’s response to the earthquake has come under scrutiny, with criticisms stemming from bureaucratic delays in aid distribution. King Mohammed VI’s (King of Morocco) limited public presence during this crisis has raised questions, and certain international offers of assistance have faced rejection.

Western Sahara Occupation and International Assistance

Now Morocco is facing challenges in responding to the disaster due to its long-standing occupation of Western Sahara since 1975. It is a violation of the United Nations Security Council resolutions. This occupation has strained Morocco’s resources and hindered its ability to effectively address the earthquake’s impact within its borders.

Despite these challenges, the international community, including the United States, has demonstrated solidarity by offering medical and financial support to the earthquake victims. Powerful organizations such as Oxfam, CARE, Doctors Without Borders, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch have stepped in to provide aid and advocate for accountability.

Call for Changes and Path Forward

As the world watches Morocco grapple with the aftermath of this devastating earthquake, there is a growing call for the United States to reconsider its recognition of Morocco’s illegal annexation of Western Sahara and suspend military cooperation with Moroccan security forces until they withdraw from the occupied territory. These policy changes are seen as essential steps toward a lasting solution.

As Morocco starts on the path of recovery, the global community stands united in offering assistance, hope, and support, as the nation rebuilds and renews its resilience in the face of adversity.