Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Morocco: A Field Study

Citizens in Morocco place significant importance on freedom of expression, recognizing it as a fundamental human right. The research’s findings reveal that a majority of participants in this study view freedom of expression as a significant issue, strongly affirming its importance, despite a minority who perceive it as unimportant or unnecessary.

There is a variation in participants’ views on freedom of expression: 42% perceive it as moderately protected, while others see challenges and restrictions that hinder its full realization. There’s also ongoing debate over the seriousness and obstacles impeding freedom of expression, causing a sense of insecurity. On the other hand, some participants feel safe and confident in exercising their rights, reflecting a diversity in perceptions and experiences related to freedom of expression in Morocco.

Engagement in expressing opinions in Morocco shows clear diversity, with many preferring not to publicly express their views, while others freely share their opinions and critique government policies.

Regarding criticism of government policies, there are clear differences in views. Most people avoid delving into these issues, while a part of the community feels secure and free enough to openly express their opinions and criticisms. Most study participants reported they have not faced censorship or interference in their freedom of expression over the past five years, while a noticeable percentage expressed concern about these restrictions, and another percentage remain uncertain about their experiences.

There is a notable lack of legal awareness about the press and publishing law in Morocco, with most participants lacking insufficient knowledge about it. Although a small percentage have varying levels of knowledge, legal details and information are often limited. Regarding trust in institutions, there appears to be a relatively high confidence in the judiciary. However, when it comes to protecting freedom of expression, opinions vary significantly, reflecting the impact of factors such as a lack of legal awareness and firsthand experiences on trust-building in this context.