UN Expert: “Morocco Handles Illegal Gatherings Better Than European Countries”
Sofiane Ben Qasemi
An UN expert has stated that the intervention of Moroccan public forces to prevent unauthorized gatherings called by unknown entities last weekend was balanced and gradual, emphasizing a preventive and peaceful approach to managing the situation.
Luis Marie Bouaka, former representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and a member of the Scientific Council of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies, noted in a press statement that the interventions were conducted within legal frameworks, starting with verbal warnings and reminders of the prohibition, followed by the deployment of unarmed forces, culminating in the peaceful dispersal of the crowds, with only limited arrests made under the supervision of the public prosecutor.
He stressed that this method confirms the possibility of addressing illegal movements without resorting to violence, which is considered rare in the international context.
Bouaka pointed out that the Moroccan model differs from other situations around the world, where security forces’ interventions often lead to violent confrontations and escalating tensions, citing the “Yellow Vests” movement in France and the anti-austerity protests in Greece, as well as events in Latin America that turned into riots.
He asserted that Morocco has opted for a preventive and balanced approach, reflecting a clear desire to avoid escalation and closing the door on manipulative attempts circulating through social media.
Bouaka concluded his statement by asserting that the Moroccan situation embodies the emergence of a security model that combines firmness and moderation, emphasizing that this peaceful management of illegal gatherings demonstrates a commitment to consolidating internal stability while maintaining public trust.
He added that maintaining public order does not mean overlooking social and political challenges, but rather confirms that genuine reforms are achieved through institutions and the ballot box, not through movements with ambiguous motives.
