Morocco: Demonstration in Casablanca August 23

Event

Demonstrations are scheduled to be held in Casablanca on Wednesday, August 23, in support of a victim of sexual assault, who was allegedly assaulted on public transportation on Friday, August 18. The sit-in will begin at 18:00 (local time) at Place Marechal. Multiple groups are reported to be involved in the demonstrations, and hundreds of people are expected to attend. Transportation disruptions are possible in the vicinity of Place Marechal, and increased security measures are likely to be implemented. 

There is a potential for solidarity protests to be organized across the country.

Context

A video of a young girl being sexually assaulted by a group of teenagers on Friday, August 18 has caused an uproar throughout Morocco. Several activists and civil society members have called for increased awareness over sexual assault and greater protection for women traveling on public transport.

Advice

Individuals in Casablanca are advised to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering and to remain vigilant at all times.

On a more general note, due to the significant terrorist threat, individuals in Morocco are advised report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities and to exercise caution at all times, particularly when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (public transportation, train stations, ports, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.), especially in major cities such as Marrakesh, Rabat, and Casablanca.