Expand your understanding of the recent tragic disaster in Morocco.

In the first week of September, a devastating earthquake struck the citizens of Morocco, burdening them with its catastrophic effects. This event posed a threat to the stability of Morocco’s sovereignty, evoking an emotion of uncertainty for the nation’s people. Despite its severe impact on internal and external affairs in the country, the earthquake has received a lack of coverage in global journalism.

The disaster struck on the night of September 8th, with the epicenter on a fault below the rural High Atlas Mountains that rippled throughout Western Morocco. The earthquake had a magnitude of 6.8, a destructive value that resulted in the collapse of foundational infrastructure in previously prosperous cities such as Marrakech. The main event and its following aftershocks shook the ground tremendously, with a shallow depth of only 11.2 miles contributing to this effect. Ultimately, the episode was so detrimental that it was felt all the way to Portugal and Algeria.

Under the rubble and debris, first responders have concluded over 2,900 deaths and 5,000 injuries across the villages and cities. Individuals were buried under their homes, awaiting the aid of emergency workers for days. Families have had themselves separated after the misplacement of family members and loved ones in this disaster.

Survivors and other internally displaced persons are unsure how to proceed with the perpetual consequences of the earthquake. The imprint that this catastrophe has left will have an everlasting impact on the economy and everyday life of Moroccans. The journey to restore Morocco will be extensive, with the workforce having halted its routines, affecting the pace of rehabilitation of Morocco’s environment.

The earthquake destroyed rural villages and ancient dwellings in the Al Haouz province. Due to its mountainous terrain, the disaster caused villages to get crushed by rocks and arduous rubble, blocking narrow roads. The blockage of village roads increased the difficulty of reaching isolated towns, which has produced an inability to aid critically injured individuals. The government and people have to work together to clear the damage and rebuild the country to its original state.

Generally, the earthquake has not been broadcast across Western journalism, possibly due to global inequalities or ignorance of foreign events.

Katherine Cheung ‘26 provides insight into what she knows about the Moroccan earthquake and the inadequate attention it has received.

“I’ve seen headlines about [the earthquake] and some posts on social media,” Cheung states, “I haven’t seen anything [about the Moroccan earthquake] on television.”

Through the minimal coverage, she states what she is aware of. “I only know that there has been a large number of casualties and that it occurred in Morocco. I would say it’s significant for [all Moroccans], whether they’re indirectly or directly involved.” Cheung describes a chain effect of people directly impacted having family members and loved ones also become affected by the earthquake, leaving the majority of Moroccan society vulnerable.

Moroccans experience struggles in receiving guidance due to their level of development. Cheung emphasizes the privileges more developed countries have compared to states like Morocco. “People in the West are luckier in that regard because they have more access [to resources] and media attention.” She concludes that society has double standards when it comes to supporting Western states in contrast to supporting countries like Morocco. 

Noora Fatima ‘26 also expresses her limited background on the earthquake.

“I just know [the earthquake] was really severe and caused a whole lot of damage in affected areas.”

She explains how living in the suburbs of Kansas is an advantage for citizens as they don’t have to worry about the security of their town, but in countries like Morocco, one has uncertainty for the future of their homeland. “…In less stable places [like Morocco], it’s definitely very different because you have this dark cloud that’s over you at all times, making you wonder whether or not you will face another devastating event.” 

“American news outlets don’t seem to like talking about [the Morocco earthquake] so you have to take it upon yourself to do what’s right and make sure people know about it.” Due to Western media dwelling on trivial topics instead of focusing on global issues, Fatima reminds us that in an age of technology, individuals hold the power to ensure that important stories, such as the Morocco earthquake, receive the attention and support they deserve. 

Fatima closes by saying that awareness is key in the Moroccan situation. “It starts with knowing.” Acknowledging the event is a major step in contributing to the recovery from the earthquake and restoring the quality of life in Morocco. After recognizing the disaster, one can choose to provide through donations or other Hence, spreading the understanding of the disaster will aid the humanitarian crisis as well as expand the needed coverage on the Morocco earthquake.