Return of Moroccans Abroad… A Deep-Rooted Bond That Disrupts the Calculations of the Eastern Neighbor

Editorial – ALDAR/ Iman Alaoui

Despite the ongoing disinformation campaigns disseminated through biased Algerian media platforms, the figures reveal a different reality—one that reflects the strength of the bond uniting Moroccans living abroad with their homeland. The “Marhaba 2025” operation recorded a notable 13.31% increase in the number of returning members of the Moroccan diaspora compared to last year, affirming the enduring sense of belonging and the eagerness of Moroccans around the world to spend their summer holidays in the embrace of their homeland.

This growing influx goes beyond tourism or seasonal travel—it represents a clear national and emotional statement, countering all the disruptive narratives promoted by media mouthpieces east of the border. These outlets aim to portray a distorted image of Morocco’s internal affairs in an attempt to sow confusion among Maghrebi communities abroad.

In stark contrast, the reality faced by the Algerian diaspora in Europe—particularly in France—paints a different picture. Unofficial reports indicate a sharp decline in the number of Algerians returning to their country during the summer season, despite the availability of numerous air and sea routes. This decline is largely attributed to a loss of trust in state institutions, the absence of a welcoming environment, and a prevailing sense of political and social exclusion that haunts many members of the Algerian community, even during their temporary visits back home.

Conversely, the Moroccan state has, for years, adopted an inclusive and open approach toward its diaspora. This has been reflected in the development of appropriate infrastructure, facilitation of travel procedures, and the provision of cultural and institutional support that reinforces national belonging. King Mohammed VI’s consistent directives—especially in his Throne Day speeches—have firmly positioned Moroccans abroad as a strategic national priority, not merely as a source of financial remittances, but as a vital pillar of national sovereignty.

Observers note that this “familial and political loyalty” demonstrated by Moroccans around the world unsettles the Algerian regime, which struggles to maintain strong ties with its own diaspora. The regime often engages with its expatriate citizens solely from a security or electoral standpoint, resulting in an emotional and institutional disconnect between the Algerian state and its overseas nationals.

Ultimately, the return of millions of Moroccans each summer serves as a living testament to the success of Morocco’s emotional and political model of attachment to the homeland. This reality deserves recognition not only through statistics, but through the deepening of policies that elevate the diaspora to the status of a genuine partner in national development. At the regional level, it is increasingly acknowledged that Morocco is winning the human connection challenge—while the eastern neighbor once again misses the opportunity to reconnect with its own children in the diaspora.