African Barometer Report 2024.. 45% of Moroccans Consider Emigration

A recent report published by the African Barometer for 2024 reveals that 45% of Moroccans have considered emigrating in recent years. Among them, 16% thought about it “a lot,” while 29% considered it to varying degrees, ranging from “moderately” to “slightly.”

These figures reflect a growing desire to seek opportunities abroad, particularly in light of the economic and social challenges facing the country and the African continent as a whole.

Although the percentage of Moroccans considering emigration is lower than the African average of 47%, the data highlights a rising trend, especially among young people. Compared to countries like Liberia (78%) or The Gambia (68%), Morocco is in a relatively better position, but this does not negate the economic pressures driving many to think about leaving the country.

The data also shows that the proportion of Moroccans considering emigration has risen by 9 percentage points since 2016. This increase aligns with the general trend observed across the African continent, where many countries have experienced similar rises, except for Tanzania, which recorded a 5-point decrease.

According to the report, economic reasons are the primary driver of this desire to emigrate. Indeed, 49% of respondents indicated that job-seeking was their main motivation. Additionally, 29% cited poverty and difficult economic conditions as factors pushing them to consider emigration—reasons that align with the challenges faced by populations across the African continent.