Morocco Diaspora

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Map of the Moroccan Diaspora throughout the world

Major Destination Countries

The following countries experienced a significant number of Moroccan immigrants in the past 200 years (this list is not intended to be comprehensive; many Moroccans also migrated to other countries). Major migration wave time periods are included in parentheses.

  • France (early 1900s, mid 1900s)
  • Spain (mid 1900s)
  • Israel (late 1800s - mid 1900s)
  • Italy (early 1900s, mid 1900s)
  • Belgium (mid 1900s)
  • United Kingdom (mid 1900s)
  • Algeria (early 1900s)

Resources

Offices to Contact

Network on Migration and Global Mobility
Stadscampus
B-2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Email: migloba@uantwerpen.be
Website

Background

The Moroccan diaspora began to take shape in the 19th century with Moroccan Jews migrating to Israel, establishing pioneer neighborhoods in cities like Jerusalem and Tiberias. This early migration set the stage for larger waves in the mid-20th century, particularly after the establishment of Israel in 1948. Throughout the 20th century, significant numbers of Moroccans also moved to Western Europe, with France, Belgium, and the Netherlands becoming primary destinations due to labor recruitment programs. Economic hardship and political instability further fueled migration to Spain and Italy later in the century. The Moroccan diaspora has since played a vital role in the economic and social dynamics of both their host countries and Morocco, contributing through remittances, investments, and cultural exchanges.[1]

Strategy

References

  1. Wikipedia Contributors, "Moroccan Diaspora," Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia, accessed 27 February 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moroccan_diaspora.