Morocco to Launch Second Campaign of Illegal Immigrants Regularization

PERSISMA, Rabat – Morocco is set to launch a second campaign to regularize the situations of illegal immigrants living in the kingdom.

In accordance with the high instructions of HM King Mohammed VI, the second phase of the campaign for the regularization of the situation of illegal immigrants in Morocco will be launched immediately, as already planned for the end of 2016, the National Commission in charge of Illegal Immigrants’ Regularization said on Monday.

“During HM the King’s visits to sub-Saharan African countries, several Heads of State congratulated the Sovereign and the Kingdom of Morocco for its migration policy, which aims at promoting the economic and social integration of illegal immigrants mainly those from Sub-Saharan African countries,” the commission added in a statement.

“Given the success of the first phase of the regularization campaign that took place in 2014, HM the King gave his high instructions for the launching of the second phase of the process, as already planned by the end of 2016,” the source pointed out.

This second phase, which will be launched immediately, will take place under the same conditions as the first phase, which involved about twenty-five thousand people. In a speech to the nation on the anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People, the King said that “Morocco was one of the first countries of the South to adopt a genuine solidarity-based policy regarding sub-Saharan migrants.”

“This integrated policy, which is rooted in humanitarian values, is designed to make sure migrants’ rights and dignity are safeguarded,” the Sovereign added.“As part of the implementation of this policy, my country has, without any arrogance, pomposity or discrimination, regularized the situation of migrants using fair and reasonable standards. It has provided the conditions needed for migrants to reside, work and lead a dignified life within our community,” the King pointed out.

“This is hardly surprising on the part of Moroccans, considering the way they always treat their guests. Generosity, hospitality and the warmth of their welcome have long been deep-rooted features of our identity and culture.”

“I am deeply satisfied to note that migrants are hardworking people, who are known for their good behavior, their commitment to the rule of law and their respect for Moroccan values and sanctities.” “Let me add, in this regard, that we are only fulfilling our duty towards these people, whose circumstances have led them to risk their lives and leave their families and homeland.”

“Morocco, which has long rejected the methods adopted by some to address migration issues and which have turned out to be a failure, is proud of what it is doing in terms of receiving and integrating migrants. It will keep up this practical, humanitarian approach.”