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Comprehensive Moroccan Strategy to Combat Sports Hooliganism Between Legal Measures and Proactive Prevention
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Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports, Mohamed Saad Barada, confirmed that the Kingdom of Morocco has adopted a comprehensive strategy to curb the phenomenon of violence at sporting events. This plan is based on a delicate balance between deterrent measures and preventive efforts. The minister, in a speech delivered on his behalf by acting Secretary-General Hussein Qadad during the International Scientific Forum on Security at Major Sporting Events, explained that this vision is being implemented in close coordination between various government sectors, the National Olympic Committee, sports federations, and notably the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, with active participation from local authorities and civil society organizations.
This strategy relies, in its legal and technical aspects, on the strict enforcement of the penal code provisions related to violence occurring during matches, ensuring that punitive penalties are imposed on anyone inciting acts of violence. Simultaneously, efforts are being made to upgrade the infrastructure of stadiums hosting the professional league by equipping them with modern technological means, such as advanced surveillance cameras, electronic gates, and a digital ticketing system, which contribute to strengthening security protocols. Measures also include enhancing institutional coordination and activating local committees to combat violence, in addition to applying the university disciplinary code against clubs whose fans engage in destructive acts.
Despite the importance of punitive measures in controlling excesses, the government official stressed the need to accompany these measures with a preventive approach focused on awareness and education. This approach aims to instill a culture of positive encouragement among youth through the preparation of targeted digital content and mobilizing media outlets to highlight the dangers of hooliganism and its negative impacts on society. The minister noted that hooliganism remains an alien phenomenon in Moroccan society, which is rich in values of tolerance, necessitating collective efforts from all stakeholders to transform stadiums into spaces for values and sports ethics.
This initiative holds strategic significance in light of the major sporting events awaiting Morocco, including the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 and the preparations for hosting the 2030 World Cup jointly with Spain and Portugal. The scientific forum, which saw significant international participation from FIFA experts, Interpol, and UN organizations, serves as a vital platform for exchanging experiences regarding security and legal challenges amidst digital transformations, ensuring the delivery of a model and safe edition of international sporting events on Moroccan soil.
