Morocco is facing a wave of sensationalized reporting aimed at undermining its efforts as a co-host for the 2030 World Cup. Recent claims, amplified by Italian sports influencer Fabrizio Romano and based on a “special report” by The Athletic, suggest up to three million stray dogs could be killed to “clean up” streets before the tournament.
Romano cited alleged “animal rights groups” claims of mass shootings, poisonings, and even burning dogs alive. The Athletic‘s January report relied heavily on anonymous witnesses and included photos of trucks suggested to be used for collection.
However, Moroccan officials are vehemently denying these baseless claims. High-level instructions from King Mohammed VI have prioritized a humane, structured national campaign. Since 2023, the Ministry of Interior has urged local authorities to avoid violence, emphasizing methods like Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return (TNVR), an internationally approved approach.
Mohamed Roudani of the General Directorate of Territorial Communities explicitly denied the “completely unfounded” reports of planning to kill three million dogs. He emphasized Morocco’s commitment to humane and sustainable solutions.
Furthermore, Minister of Interior Abdelouai Laftit highlighted a MAD 260 million investment over the past five years to help municipalities safely manage, collect, and sterilize strays, including creating and equipping new shelter centers.
Critics and observers note that such sensational accusations often surface when Morocco gains global visibility, like hosting major events. Interestingly, a British columnist for The Spectator recently accused Western campaigners of “colonial double standards,” pointing out that no civilized country, including Britain, tolerates millions of strays, and Western countries frequently euthanize unclaimed or aggressive animals.
Previously, a viral photo used to support claims of dog killings in Morocco was debunked by Reuters fact-check as being from Iraq in 2008, highlighting the nature of unverified allegations. Morocco continues to focus on its humane $100 million national program for sterilization, vaccination, and purpose-built shelters.
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