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Morocco’s monarchy claims descent from the Prophet Muhammad, and it is estimated that 99% of the population is Muslim. It highlights just how rare and risky it is for anyone to convert to Christianity – so unusual, that some Christians assume they are the only believers in their region or the entire country.
Despite being increasingly influenced by the West, Morocco retains a strong Islamic identity, making it dangerous for anyone who chooses to follow Jesus, particularly young people.
A huge challenge for Christians, both Moroccan and foreign, is that it is illegal to ‘shake the faith of a Muslim’. That means that any conversation about faith can be fraught with risk, potentially leading to arrest.
Converts can encounter intense pressure to renounce their faith, with tactics including isolation, expulsion, violence and even superstitious treatments by imams (Muslim leaders). Converts can lose their jobs. Even if some judges do uphold the cases of converts in court, family pressures can often render their verdicts irrelevant. Understandably, many believers keep their faith secret.
Despite at times engaging with advocates over the rights of Christians, the authorities monitor Christian activities and question church leaders. Several Christians have been pressured to report on their own communities.
Converts are most at risk, particularly in rural areas which are typically more conservative. Those living in urban areas may find it easier to escape family and communal pressures, but they can still face problems.
"Every time I feel this pain, I cry. But I also pray. It’s through prayer that I can get through this. In all the sadness, I behold Christ in my life because when I remember that He’s with me, I feel joyous."
"Batoul" was tormented by her mother and sisters when she became a Christian.
Morocco fell by two places on this year’s World Watch List (WWL) even though the persecution score rose. While the situation in Morocco changed little, the countries ranked above Morocco on the WWL became more dangerous. The monitoring and questioning of Christians in Morocco, especially leaders, continued last year. Although no believers were prosecuted, the incidents had a profound impact on believers. Their faith was publicly exposed, making them more vulnerable to hostility from their families and communities. Pervasive monitoring by the authorities is why many believers keep their faith hidden and have to be careful what they share online. Additionally, a number of church gatherings were forced to stop meeting, especially among churches made up of people from sub-Saharan Africa.
Open Doors local partners support the church in North Africa through leadership training, livelihood assistance, prayer support and trauma counselling.
King Jesus, thank You that increasing numbers of people are encountering You in Morocco, often in supernatural ways. We pray for more! But we’re conscious that for many, following You is very costly. Strengthen, encourage and protect them, provide opportunities for community with each other, and draw their loved ones to You. Equip and raise up leaders and give them favour with the authorities. Show Your power in Morocco today, we pray. Amen.
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