One Year On: Activists’ Response to the Morocco Earthquake

One year after the earthquake in Morocco, see how the Fund’s supporters helped grassroots groups save lives and protect survivors’ rights.

When a devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Morocco on September 8, 2023, the Fund for Global Human Rights launched an emergency fundraising campaign to support local human rights activists and the communities they serve. Our community came together and raised more than $58,000 to help provide urgent relief to marginalized and at-risk communities affected by the disaster.

[READ: Morocco Earthquake Response: Your Life-Saving Impact]

The Fund has worked with grassroots rights groups in Morocco for nearly 20 years, building trusted relationships with local leaders who deeply understand their communities’ needs and culture. The participation of local grassroots groups is increasingly recognized as a vital part of effective disaster response.

Within hours after the earthquake, Fund staff were in contact with this network of activists, checking on their safety and supporting coordination of their aid efforts. Activists used their contacts and our funding to transport injured people via helicopter. And in the following days and weeks, the Fund’s support enabled activists to collect and deliver food, clothing, tents, and hygiene supplies.

Critically, after global attention moved on to other crises, the groups have continued to tackle emerging issues and heightened systemic inequalities. Their efforts included a campaign to keep girls in school and to prevent underage marriage, which frequently spikes in the aftermath of disasters.

We are grateful for the dedication of our community and for every gift made to our emergency campaign, including support from Choose Love.