Moroccan Children Affected by Earthquake Vulnerable to Human Trafficking Threat

Rabat – In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that shook Morocco last week, a new and alarming concern has emerged. Many Moroccan children, especially girls, already traumatized by the disaster, have become potential victims of human trafficking during these trying times, sparking widespread concern among social media users and authorities alike.

The earthquake has left a significant portion of Morocco’s population in a difficult situation. Among those most vulnerable are the children, who have lost their families, homes, and a sense of security. UNICEF estimates that up to 100,000 children have been affected by the disaster, though the exact number of casualties remains unclear.

The disturbing trend that has emerged on Moroccan social media platforms further exacerbated the crisis. Numerous reports have surfaced of individuals, primarily adult men, making unsettling statements and taking actions that raise concerns about the welfare and safety of these vulnerable children.

Child Marriage Risks

A sort of social media campaign has called on Moroccan men to travel to affected villages and marry young girls in an attempt to “protect” them after they have lost their families and homes.

Shockingly, photographs have circulated on social media depicting grown men alongside girls as young as 7 and 8, with claims that they have proposed marriage to these young children, intending to take them to urban areas for their safety.

A disturbing photo that a man shared on his social media saying that he asked this young girl, who looks around 7 years old, to marry him and go with him to Casablanca

The rationale behind this is that these girls, having lost their families and homes, are perceived as having fewer demands compared to urban women. Proponents argued that marrying these girls would require no dowry, making them, in their view, more accessible partners.

Similarly, fears are growing for the well-being of young boys, as the risk of exploitation and forced labor is looming.

Amid the chaos, many Moroccans have come forward with offers to adopt these children. However, the true intentions behind these offers remain uncertain.

“I’m flabbergasted to hear the testimonies of volunteers who have been working since Saturday to help the people of the al Haouz region, and who are witnessing scenes of harassment of young girls from the region,” said a social media user.

She went on to add that “a gang of idiots is taking advantage of the situation to ask them [young girls] to go home with them, while others are inviting their friends to marry them, on the pretext that they want to help and get good deeds.”

‘Green Number’ to protect children

To combat this emerging crisis, Morocco’s National Committee to Combat and Prevent Human Trafficking has launched a “green number” (080000 4747) that allows Moroccans to report any suspicious cases they believe may be related to human trafficking or child endangerment.

The initiative aims to encourage citizens to become vigilant and play an active role in safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable children.

The situation remains critical, and the authorities, along with international organizations like UNICEF, are working to protect and support the affected children.