“After the cessation of subsistence smuggling in northern Morocco: failure of economic alternatives and the role of family vulnerability and education in the mass migration from Fnideq”
Northern migration attempts question the effectiveness of public policies and local development
The recent mass migration attempt of children and minors from the city of Fnideq to Ceuta has raised a wave of questions about the effectiveness of public policies in the northern region and their ability to create sustainable local development. While these attempts have continued in a striking manner, it has become necessary to focus on the fundamental factors driving this phenomenon, from economic issues to social and educational aspects.
Dimensions of Mass Migration
Among the key questions raised by this issue: What is the primary motivation for these migrations? Are they merely the result of a lack of development and economic opportunities, or are there deeper reasons related to family and education? While some view migration as a direct consequence of poverty and lack of job opportunities, analysts such as Mohamed El Omrani Boukhezane argue that the issue is more complex, explaining that migration is not only linked to economic factors but is also influenced by family and educational problems, as well as adventurous motivations. Therefore, it is not accurate to attribute all mass migration attempts solely to a lack of development.
Development in the Region: Ambition vs. Reality
Although some successes have been recorded in the development of the northern region, particularly in terms of infrastructure and tourism, this has not yet translated into tangible results for the most vulnerable groups. Many projects launched, including the special economic zone, have not yet led to immediate improvements in living standards, which increases pressure on families and drives young people and children to seek opportunities beyond borders.
Failure of Alternative Policies After the End of Subsistence Smuggling
One of the constantly raised issues is the cessation of subsistence smuggling activities since 2019, an activity that was considered a lifeline for many families in the border region. In the absence of an effective and immediate economic alternative, these families have found themselves facing severe economic challenges, which increases frustration and the desire to migrate.
What is Omitted in This Issue
There is no doubt that the migration phenomenon is not only a reflection of an economic crisis but reflects a comprehensive crisis that includes several aspects: family vulnerability, weaknesses in the educational system, and the lack of youth activities offering hope to young people. Additionally, some reports suggest the existence of organized efforts to recruit these children from various areas for migration, which necessitates verification of smuggling networks that may be involved in these operations.
Questions to Ask
- Will the new economic zone be able to provide sustainable job opportunities for women and youth?
- How can the government improve educational programs and extracurricular activities to attract youth and keep them from thinking about migration?
- To what extent do organized smuggling networks influence children’s migration, and what are the security solutions to address these threats?
Impact on Morocco’s International Image
Regarding the impact of these attempts on Morocco’s international image, some point out that these events have not received significant media coverage on the international stage, perhaps due to the world’s focus on economic challenges that press on the concept of migration itself. Nevertheless, there should be greater attention to addressing the phenomenon at its roots, as the persistence of these scenes may reinforce negative images associated with Morocco abroad.
The repeated attempts at migration from northern Morocco raise many questions about the effectiveness of government policies in improving the conditions of these vulnerable groups. Despite the development efforts made, the main question remains: Will these policies succeed in creating a tangible impact to improve the lives of citizens, or will migration remain the only option available to them?
