Disconnection Between Rhetoric and Reality: The Case of Black Migrants in Morocco

Abstract

This thesis examines the Moroccan new policy of migration implemented in 2014, focusing on regularizing and integrating Black sub-Saharan African migrants. Historically a country of emigration, Morocco has become a key transit core for migrants in route to Europe, leading to significant demographic shifts. These changes have presented challenges for both host communities and migrants, particularly regarding social cohesion and integration. The 2014 migration policy strategy was a critical action in addressing these challenges, granting legal residency to many undocumented migrants and improving access to public services like healthcare, education, and employment. The policy also aimed to align Morocco’s migration framework with international human rights standards, signaling a commitment to a more humane approach to migration management. However, the findings highlight a disconnect between the policy’s intentions and the realities experienced by migrants in the country. While the reforms have led to some improvements, black sub-Saharan migrants still face significant barriers to full integration as racial discrimination remains a persistent issue excluding blacks from social cohesion and integration in host community. The absence of effective legal mechanisms to oppose racism and penalize discriminatory acts aggravates current situation, leaving many Black migrants marginalized and behind. These challenges underscore the limitations of the current migration strategy in fostering meaningful inclusion. The thesis concludes by stressing the need for a more comprehensive approach to migrant integration that goes beyond policy reforms and blocks the societal attitudes behind racism and exclusion. Morocco’s migration strategy must not only focus on regularizing migrants’ legal status but also work to counter xenophobia and promote social cohesion. This involves greater engagement with both host communities and migrant populations to foster mutual respect and understanding. Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of including short-term transit migrants in integration efforts, as their presence also contributes to Morocco’s ongoing social transformation