Insights into Public Safety and Quality of Life in Morocco

According to a recent survey conducted by Moroccan market research firm Sunergia, an overwhelming 82% of Moroccans reported feeling safe in public spaces, marking a notable 17-point increase from 2019. The survey delved into the nuances of public safety perceptions, revealing that men (84%) felt marginally safer than women (79%) in public areas.

Of particular interest, the age group expressing the highest sense of security was the youth aged 18-24, with an impressive 87% affirming their confidence in public spaces across Morocco. Following closely were citizens between 55 and 64 years old, with 83% reporting a sense of safety. However, individuals over 65 and those aged 25-34 expressed higher levels of insecurity in public areas.

In probing the factors contributing to feelings of insecurity, unemployment emerged as a major concern, with Morocco's unemployment rate soaring to 13.5% last year. Alarmingly, data from the High Commission of Planning (HCP) revealed staggeringly high unemployment rates among young people aged 15 to 24 (38%), women (19.8%), and college graduates (19.8%).

Beyond unemployment, respondents cited drugs (34%), lack of education (29%), theft (8%), and poverty (4%) as additional concerns impacting their sense of public safety. Notably, 20% of respondents chose not to provide a response to this question.

The survey also shed light on the cities considered ideal for the best quality of life in Morocco. Tangier emerged as the top choice, leading the list in both 2023 and 2019. However, a significant 13% of respondents believed that no city in Morocco guarantees a good quality of life.

Casablanca secured the third position, marking a notable improvement from its 4% rating in 2019 to a 13% approval rate in the current survey. Marrakech and Rabat rounded out the top five cities, garnering 11% and 10% of the votes, respectively. Interestingly, Sale, Rabat's twin city, and Mohammedia near Casablanca found themselves at the bottom of the list.

With its compelling findings and insightful analysis, this survey offers a comprehensive glimpse into the intricate dynamics of public safety perceptions and the pursuit of an ideal quality of life across Morocco's diverse urban landscapes.