Morocco Ranks 108th in the 2021 Global Health Security Index

Rabat – Morocco is among the least prepared countries to cope with epidemics such as the ongoing COVID-19, according to the 2021 Global Health Security Index.

The study revealed steps taken by countries to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic based on several indicators such as the health system, rapid response to the healthcare crisis, compliance with international norms, and risk environment.

Overall, Morocco is ranked 108th out of 195 countries, with a total of 33.6 points out of 100, two places down from last year’s ranking.

As for the category dealing with the prevention of the emergence or release of pathogens, the kingdom ranks 86th with a score of 29.3, and maintains the same rank with a score of 30.8 in terms of a sufficient and robust health system to treat the sick and protect health workers.

The country is also 110th for early detection and reporting of outbreaks of potential international concern, and 151th for the rapid response and mitigation of the spread of an epidemic.

Morocco also ranks 169th for its commitments to improving national capacity, financing plans to address gaps, and adherence to global norms, and 110th for the country’s global risk environment and vulnerability to biological threats.

Compared to other countries in the MENA region, Morocco ranks 11th in Africa, behind South Africa (56th), Mauritius (79th), Kenya (84th), Nigeria (86th), Ethiopia (87th), Uganda (90th), Liberia (94th), Ghana (104th), Cape Verde (105th) and Botswana (108th).

Meanwhile, the north African country lined up 8th among Arab countries, behind Qatar (49th), Saudi Arabia (61st), Jordan (66th), the UAE (80th), Oman (81st), Kuwait (88th) and Bahrain (92nd).

While in the overall global ranking, Morocco occupies the first place in North Africa (108th) ahead of Tunisia (123rd), Algeria and Mauritania, who share 163rd place, and Libya (172nd).

At the global level, the US is in the lead, followed by Australia, Finland, and Canada, whereas Syria comes in 192nd, followed by North Korea, Yemen, and Somalia in 195th place.

The index highlighted that although many countries proved their ability to ramp up new capacities during the emergency, many others have shown weaknesses such as lack of healthcare surge capacity and critical medical supplies.

While several high-income countries showed commitment in addressing the ongoing health crisis, low-income countries are struggling to boost their vaccination rates due to lack of funding, infrastructure, and preparedness for emergencies.