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Ben Guerir — Many young people in Morocco today are eager to leave their homeland, but this goes beyond the mere “brain drain” phenomenon. It reflects a generation heavily influenced by social media.
Our parents went abroad for legitimate reasons—seeking quality education and valuable experience.
However, today Morocco has made significant strides across different sectors. The country actively supports entrepreneurs and startups through a range of programs and offers access to high-quality education.
With such dramatic development, the necessity to emigrate with the intention of returning later no longer holds.
Recently, this issue has taken a dramatic turn. On September 15, northern Moroccan cities like Fnideq were gripped by chaos as hundreds of young Moroccans clashed with police forces.
Viral videos showed large groups responding to social media calls for a mass irregular migration attempt toward the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
Despite the deployment of security units, scenes of riots and vandalism, including attacks on police vehicles, unfolded, overwhelming Moroccan and Spanish authorities.
This is not about seeking better education or experience abroad; it is about a generation swept up in a dangerous fantasy.
I have debated this topic many times. While opinions vary, one common thread exists: they seek a “better” life. Yet, Morocco is a beautiful country, blessed with favorable weather, affordable living, and warm, hospitable people. Why, then, is there this obsession with going abroad?
The answer lies in distorted perceptions.
Many young Moroccans idolize someone on social media who went abroad and flaunted only the glamorous side of that life.
They often say, “The country did not provide us with what we deserve.” But what exactly do they believe they deserve? I ask, “What diplomas or experience do you have? What is your added value to our country?”
Their responses often sidestep these questions, insisting, “It does not matter. Abroad, you can have a high income without experience or education.”
False dreams like these fuel the obsession, creating an illusion that life elsewhere is effortlessly better.
This skewed reality drives their desire. Awareness is crucial.
The recent situation in Fnideq highlights how social media movements can dangerously influence young minds, leading them to believe in a promise of success that is often a mirage.
These youth are lured into thinking that crossing to the enclaves will lead to an easier life, only to find themselves confined in overcrowded centers on the other side, facing harsh and inhumane conditions before being deported back to Morocco.
Leaving for another country as a refugee while your homeland is at peace? My advice to these youth; first, invest in yourself. Gain work experience, learn new languages, and develop valuable skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and communication. Represent your country as an ambassador before considering such a move.
Do they truly believe another country will welcome them with “التّمر والحليب” (dates and milk)?
What unique contribution do they bring to the table? Once they cultivate these essential skills, the idea of seeking illegal refuge abroad loses its appeal.
Only then will they find pride in being valuable assets to their own country, staying close to their families, and contributing to the growth of the nation they call home.
As Benjamin Franklin wisely put it, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.”
If one truly possesses value, countries will compete to keep such minds. They will provide everything needed.
Morocco is not what it used to be. We are proud of our progress and will continue to build upon it until our nation stands as a high-income country.
