Morocco is a country in North Africa with a population of over 36 million people. The prevalence of disability in Morocco is estimated to be around 5.1% of the population. In this article, we will discuss the common attitudes towards disability in Morocco, discrimination and legislation issues, public transport and building access, as well as any lobbying or advocacy groups for people with disabilities.
Common Attitudes to Disability in Morocco
Morocco is a country with a strong religious and cultural background, which affects the attitudes towards disability. Historically, people with disabilities in Morocco have been viewed as having been cursed or punished by God. This attitude has contributed to the discrimination and marginalization of people with disabilities.
However, there has been a shift in attitudes towards people with disabilities in recent years, with more efforts to promote inclusivity and acceptance. The Moroccan government has implemented initiatives to create more job opportunities for people with disabilities and improve their access to education and healthcare. Nevertheless, there is still much work to be done to change negative attitudes towards disability in Morocco.
Discrimination and Legislation Issues in Relation to Disability in Morocco
Despite the government’s efforts, discrimination against people with disabilities remains a significant problem in Morocco. The Moroccan Disability Rights Treaty, which was ratified in 2009, aimed to protect the rights of people with disabilities and improve their living conditions. However, the implementation of this treaty has been slow, and there are still many barriers to equal rights for people with disabilities.
One of the main issues is the lack of accessibility in public spaces and buildings. Many buildings in Morocco are not accessible for people with disabilities, and the transportation system is often not accessible for wheelchair users. Discrimination in employment is also a significant problem, with people with disabilities often facing barriers to finding work or advancing in their careers.
Public Transport and Building Access in Morocco
As mentioned, accessibility is a significant issue in Morocco, and this is also true for public transport and building access. While there have been efforts to improve accessibility, such as the installation of ramps in some buildings and the provision of accessible buses, there is still a long way to go.
Many streets and sidewalks in Morocco are not wheelchair accessible, and the majority of public transport is not designed for people with disabilities. In addition, many taxis in Morocco are not wheelchair accessible, which can make it challenging for people with disabilities to get around.
Lobbying and Advocacy Groups in Morocco
There are several advocacy and lobbying groups for people with disabilities in Morocco. One of these is the Moroccan Association for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which works to promote the rights of people with disabilities and improve their access to education, employment, and healthcare.
Another organization is Handicap Maroc, which provides support and advocacy for people with disabilities, as well as education and awareness-raising activities to promote inclusivity and reduce discrimination.
In addition, there are several international organizations that work in Morocco to improve the lives of people with disabilities, such as the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus and the Global Disability Rights Now initiative.
In conclusion, people with disabilities in Morocco still face many challenges and barriers to equal rights and accessibility. Discrimination and negative attitudes towards disability remain prevalent, and there is a lack of accessibility in public spaces and transportation. Nevertheless, there are advocacy and lobbying groups working to promote inclusivity and improve the lives of people with disabilities. With continued efforts and awareness-raising activities, we can hope to see progress towards a more accessible and inclusive society for people with disabilities in Morocco.