In its report on terrorism for the year 2021, the American Department of State recalls that the United States and Morocco have “a long history of solid cooperation in the fight against terrorism”.
The Moroccan government has continued its global strategy in this area which includes vigilant security measures, regional and international cooperation and policies to combat radicalization, notes the same source, which affirms that no terrorist incident has been reported in Morocco in 2021.
The American report recalls that Morocco is a member of the Global Counterterrorism Forum, which it co-chairs with Canada, as well as the working group against violent extremism of the global coalition to defeat Daesh and co-chairs the think tank on Africa within the coalition.
On the legislative side, the document highlights that the Kingdom investigates, prosecutes and sentences the accused under the anti-terrorism legislation promulgated in 2003 and expanded in 2015, and which is in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2178. .
Moroccan law enforcement took advantage of intelligence collection, police work and collaboration with international partners to carry out counterterrorism operations, says the same source, adding that the Central Bureau of The Criminal Investigation Department (BCIJ) remains the primary law enforcement agency responsible for counterterrorism prosecutions.
The report also provides an overview of the sustained action of the Directorate General of National Security, highlighting cooperation between Moroccan law enforcement and their American counterparts, particularly with regard to improving security. technical and investigative capabilities, intelligence analysis and cybersecurity.
Regarding the fight against the financing of terrorism, American diplomacy recalls that Morocco is a member of the Financial Action Group on the Middle East and North Africa (GAFIMOAN), adding that the National Intelligence Authority Financier is a member of the Egmont Group.
“In 2021, Morocco enacted stricter anti-money laundering legislation, in line with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards,” the report said.
Regarding the fight against violent extremism, the report emphasizes that Morocco “has a strategy in this area which gives priority to economic and human development in addition to the fight against radicalization leading to violence and to the surveillance of the religious sphere”.
“The Rabita Mohammadia of ulama fights against radicalization by producing academic research, revising teaching programs and carrying out activities to raise awareness among young people on religious and social subjects,” continues the same source.
The State Department also highlighted “the efforts of the General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration (DGAPR) to modernize prison management”, citing its deradicalization program, Moussalaha (Reconciliation), both for women than for men.
Referring to international and regional cooperation, the American report highlights that the Kingdom, a major non-NATO ally, hosted African Lion in 2021, “the largest and most complex military exercise of AFRICOM (Command for Africa), which includes specialized training for counterterrorism-related units.
“In addition, the United Nations Office for Counter-Terrorism has established a program office in Morocco for specialized training in counter-terrorism and law enforcement in Africa,” the document adds, noting that this office opened its doors in June and hosted several training courses.
“Morocco also benefits from close cooperation with European partners – particularly Belgium, France and the Netherlands – to counter potential terrorist threats in Europe,” the State Department report concludes.
Time.news Interview: Securing the Future — Morocco’s Role in Global Counterterrorism
Interviewer (Editor of Time.news): Welcome, and thank you for joining us today. We are privileged to speak with Dr. Sarah El Amrani, an expert in international security and counterterrorism strategies. Today, we’re discussing Morocco’s impressive efforts in the realm of counterterrorism, highlighted in the recent American Department of State report. Dr. El Amrani, could you provide some context on the significance of the United States and Morocco’s collaboration in this domain?
Dr. Sarah El Amrani: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The partnership between the United States and Morocco in counterterrorism is a cornerstone of security in North Africa. Historically, Morocco has been a reliable ally for the U.S., particularly in combating terrorism and violent extremism. Their long-standing cooperation is pivotal, not only for regional stability but also for global security.
Editor: The report notes that no terrorist incidents were reported in Morocco in 2021. What factors contribute to such an effective track record?
Dr. El Amrani: Several factors play a role here. Morocco has implemented a multi-faceted approach that combines vigilant security measures with proactive community engagement. Their strategy includes strict anti-radicalization policies, intelligence sharing, and robust law enforcement mechanisms. The Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation (BCIJ) has been particularly effective in carrying out counterterrorism operations due to its strong capacity for intelligence analysis and its collaboration with international partners, including the U.S.
Editor: Speaking of international collaboration, the report mentions Morocco’s role in global coalitions against terrorism, such as co-chairing the Global Counterterrorism Forum. How does this position enhance Morocco’s effectiveness in combating terrorism?
Dr. El Amrani: Morocco’s role in international forums is vital. It not only underscores the country’s commitment to global counterterrorism efforts but also facilitates knowledge-sharing and resource allocation. By co-chairing initiatives like the Global Counterterrorism Forum and various working groups related to violent extremism, Morocco can influence and implement best practices while fostering regional cooperation. This leadership role amplifies its capacity to address terrorism threats more effectively.
Editor: The report also highlights Morocco’s legislative framework for counterterrorism, particularly laws enacted in 2003 and expanded in 2015. How effective are these laws in combating terrorism and aligning with international standards?
Dr. El Amrani: The evolution of Morocco’s anti-terrorism legislation reflects a responsiveness to the changing landscape of terrorism. The laws are aligned with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2178, which is crucial for ensuring that Morocco’s practices meet international standards. The ability to investigate, prosecute, and sentence individuals under these laws suggests a systematic approach to counterterrorism that emphasizes judicial accountability. This legal framework is critical for deterring potential threats and managing risks effectively.
Editor: The report also pointed out Morocco’s increased efforts to combat the financing of terrorism, including the enactment of stricter anti-money laundering legislation. How significant is this aspect in the broader fight against terrorism?
Dr. El Amrani: Fighting the financing of terrorism is essential. It’s often said that if you cut off the funding, you cut off the operational lifeblood of terrorist organizations. Morocco’s membership in financial action groups and their adoption of stricter regulations in line with FATF standards demonstrate a commitment to tackling the financial underpinnings of terrorism. This is a proactive measure that not only combats existing threats but also prevents the emergence of new ones.
Editor: As we look ahead, what do you see as the most pressing challenges for Morocco in maintaining its counterterrorism effectiveness?
Dr. El Amrani: One of the primary challenges is the evolving nature of terrorism itself. The rise of hybrid threats and the potential for radicalization through online platforms can make it difficult to stay ahead. Additionally, while Morocco has a strong security apparatus, continued investment in capacity building, community outreach, and deradicalization programs is crucial to ensure that their strategies adapt to new challenges. It’s also essential to maintain collaborative relationships with international partners to share intelligence and resources.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. El Amrani. Your insights provide a clearer picture of Morocco’s critical role in the global fight against terrorism. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Dr. El Amrani: Thank you for having me. It’s been an engaging discussion, and I look forward to seeing how Morocco continues to lead in this area.