The terrorist bombing in Casablanca in May 2003 and the bombings of the Madrid train system in March 2004, in which a number of the alleged terrorists were identified as Moroccans, reinforced the commitment of the government of Morocco to regional security. Despite sporadic domestic violence promoted by extremists encouraged with the Polisario Front and the threat of mayhem caused by regional terrorists affiliated with Al-Qaeda, Morocco has made advances in reducing options for terrorists. Because the threat of terrorism is a regional plague, Morocco has joined with the United States, the EU, and other governments to pursue a multifaceted campaign to prevent terrorists from carrying out their inhuman actions.
Terrorism in North Africa is made up of at least three components: extremists who want to destroy the existing governments, an ideological orientation that offers no practical solutions to the developmental needs of the people, and links with other groups to exploit the inefficiencies of the governments that they oppose. Morocco is trying to reduce the impact of all three of these through a comprehensive campaign to root out terrorist cells, a more open educational system and transparent government to increase public understanding, and innovative programs to help build a more vibrant economy in Morocco providing needed services to everyone.
Security is more than armaments, military equipment, and soldiers. The notion of security rests on the belief that each Moroccan is safe in their homes, on their streets, in their shops, and anywhere in their country from random acts of violence that are politically motivated. The government has opened up public space for civil society to expand and actively engage in policy discussions. The NGO community is flourishing, and there is great anticipation that the 2007 parliamentary elections will open the political system even further, growing government accountability, and continuing the country’s reform movement.
Yet much more must be done. Terrorists are seeking to expand their presence in the countries surrounding Morocco and the agitation from Polisario Front supporters continues. The balance between security considerations and human rights is of major concern as the country seeks to maintain its progressive policies while combating those forces that seek to undermine and destabilize the country. Without assistance from its friends in the global community, Morocco will be at a disadvantage in trying to stop terrorism from spreading. Its neighbors must take responsibility for their borders. The Western Sahara conflict must be resolved satisfactorily. And international organizations and regional institutions must be strengthened to provide the resources needed to succeed.
Morocco has embarked on a multiyear national human development initiative to deal with the root causes of poverty in distressed areas of the country. It has strengthened its efforts to reduce illegal immigration through Morocco to Europe and combat human trafficking. And it has joined with like-minded countries to remove opportunities for terrorists within its borders. It is a task that will require years of dedicated efforts. Morocco is well on its way.
