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Morocco has found itself embroiled in controversy following a report by the Daily Mail, which has been echoed by various international media outlets. The article claims that Morocco is planning to cull three million stray dogs in a bid to «clean» the streets ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Moroccan authorities have firmly denied these allegations.
The Daily Mail's report suggests that this purported culling operation has already commenced, with dogs being killed in public spaces. It even describes armed patrols shooting the animals, a depiction that has alarmed many, including renowned primatologist Jane Goodall. In response, Goodall sent a letter to FIFA, condemning the alleged actions as «an act of barbarism» and urging the global football organization to intervene.
Mohammed Roudani, a representative of the General Directorate of Territorial Collectivities at Morocco's Ministry of the Interior, refuted these claims in a statement to MAP, describing the information as «baseless». He clarified, «there is no culling campaign», and emphasized that Moroccan territorial communities adhere to an ethical approach for managing the canine population, aligning with international animal welfare standards.
Since 2019, Morocco has implemented a strategy for managing stray dogs based on a collaboration between the Ministry of the Interior, the National Order of Veterinarians, ONSSA, and the Ministry of Health. The country employs the TNVR method (trap, neuter, vaccinate, release) and is investing in the construction of animal dispensaries and the enhancement of municipal health offices with healthcare professionals.
