Bourita: Protecting Moroccans Abroad is a Priority and a Firm Response to Racial Assaults in Spain
Mustafa El-Filali
Nasser Bourita confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad prioritizes the protection of Moroccan citizens abroad, in line with the royal directives of King Mohammed VI and in accordance with Article 16 of the Constitution. This commitment involves an approach focused on protection, support, and assistance.
Bourita, in a written response regarding the protection of Moroccans residing in Spain from racial assaults, stated that the Moroccan Embassy in Madrid, in coordination with consulates, ensures a swift and direct response to any racially motivated attack by taking necessary measures to defend citizens’ rights and uphold their dignity.
He emphasized that the ministry is dedicated to supporting victims and assisting them through various processes, as well as coordinating with local authorities in the host country and activating bilateral consultation mechanisms to urge host governments to adopt preventive and punitive measures against manifestations of hatred and racism.
Additionally, he noted that the Moroccan Embassy in Madrid initiates communications with various official Spanish entities, including ministries and government representatives, upon such incidents being reported, to monitor the measures taken and to guarantee the protection of Moroccan citizens while preventing the recurrence of such incidents.
In this context, the embassy is also working to counter fake news targeting the Moroccan community, highlighting the significant economic role Moroccans play in Spain, as they are among the key contributors to labor market activity and the social security system.
On a preventative level, the minister underscored the importance of cultural dimensions in combating racism, pointing out the role of cultural institutions abroad, such as the Three Cultures Foundation, in fostering dialogue and cultural closeness through artistic and cultural activities that promote values of coexistence and openness.
He noted that some manifestations of racism stem from distorted perceptions and stereotypes, as well as the exploitation of these issues by certain far-right groups in their political rhetoric. However, these incidents remain isolated and do not reflect an overall hostile trend towards Moroccans within Spanish society, which often manifests rejection of such behaviors.
Regarding the teaching of Arabic and Moroccan culture, Bourita explained that the Moroccan Embassy in Madrid has engaged with certain Spanish entities that have withdrawn from the program, and has begun communications with the relevant authorities without receiving an official response thus far, emphasizing that regional entities in Spain hold substantial powers in this area.
The government official concluded by reaffirming that the ministry remains constantly mobilized to support Moroccans living abroad, defending their interests, and countering any malicious campaigns targeting them, which are often driven by political agendas rather than expressions of general societal attitudes.
