The Royal Institute for Strategic Studies (IRES) has just released a survey on social cohesion in Morocco. As part of its research program «Social Cohesion in Morocco: What Role for the State and Social Actors?», IRES has conducted its third national survey on the subject.
According to IRES, «Understanding societal changes is a key area of strategic monitoring, aiming to grasp the dynamics at play in Moroccan society, particularly regarding the evolution of social ties and value systems, the conditions for peaceful coexistence, and relationships with institutions.»
The Civic Lens
This study covered several themes. From a societal perspective, it examined family ties, friendships, neighborhood relations, work environment, the status of women, and Moroccans abroad.
It also explored the civic dimension, addressing topics such as interest in political affairs, institutional trust, the impact of the Constitution, civic engagement, national identity, social cohesion, language issues, solidarity, social justice, security perception, legality, and freedom. Other areas of focus included media influence, digital communication, and perspectives on the future.
«Limited Interest in Politics and Elections»
The survey results reveal that there has been no fundamental shift in the major trends observed in the 2011 and 2016 studies. One of the key takeaways is the relative stability of Moroccan societal structures, particularly the primacy of family ties over other social connections, the enduring influence of traditions, and a strong attachment to national identity symbols.
The study also highlights a lack of citizen interest in political affairs and elections, as well as the materialistic nature of social demands and a widespread perception of the State as a provider of solutions.
Another important observation is that the cultural globalization and technological revolution have not yet fundamentally altered individual attitudes or Moroccan national identity. However, the study notes that these major trends are influencing social bonds, particularly among urban dwellers, younger generations, and individuals with significant cultural or economic capital.
Rediscovering Family: Thank You, COVID!
IRES also analyzed the effects of the COVID-19 crisis, noting how it led to emotional distress and shifts in cultural values and social attitudes among Moroccans. However, despite its hardships, the pandemic allowed for a rediscovery of the importance of family, national solidarity, social cohesion, and even civic engagement with public institutions and authorities. These were among the positive effects of the crisis.
On the other hand, social distancing and tensions within nuclear families—including domestic violence, child abuse, rising divorce rates, mental health issues, and increased stress—led to a loosening of social ties during the health crisis.
Regarding the conditions necessary for peaceful coexistence, the survey highlights a hierarchy of social demands among Moroccans. Material needs remain dominant, particularly the improvement of purchasing power and employment opportunities for all. At the same time, the main obstacles to social harmony include poverty, social injustice, and corruption. Although these issues have shown a slight decline compared to the 2011 and 2016 studies, they remain among the most significant challenges.
These concerns have greater weight than cultural issues, such as individualism or social indifference. Notably, incivility and religious extremism have dropped to the bottom of the list of concerns this time around.
Amin RBOUB
