On the 8th of September 2023, Morocco bore witness to a catastrophic earthquake of unprecedented magnitude. This natural disaster wreaked havoc upon the region, leaving behind a trail of devastation, displacement, and untold human suffering. The seismic upheaval not only reduced buildings and infrastructure to rubble but also shattered the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals and families, thrusting them into the depths of desperate need. In the face of this unparalleled crisis, our dedicated social work colleagues have been unwavering in their efforts to provide relief, instill hope, and co-develop the path to recovery for those deeply affected.
Mohamed Lahlou, a local social worker, shed light on the relentless mission undertaken by our colleagues in Morocco. He explained, “From unloading trucks brimming with essential supplies to meticulously organising relief kits and embarking on journeys to far-flung, remote locations, our goal is clear: to deliver the essentials of life – food, shelter, water, medicine, and other vital supplies – to those who need them most, while also kindling a spark of hope in the hearts of those reeling from this catastrophe.” Mohamed continued to emphasize the wider vision of the local social work response, saying, “Our commitment goes beyond the immediate distribution of basic necessities. While we acknowledge the pressing urgency of addressing fundamental needs such as food, water, clothing, shelter, and medicine, we also recognise the profound toll that trauma exerts on both individuals and communities. Our social workers are adept in the practice of trauma-informed care, ensuring that the emotional and psychological well-being of survivors remains at the forefront of our efforts. We provide a safe haven where individuals can share their experiences, express their emotions, and embark on the journey of healing.”
In the light of the ongoing risks of aftershocks that continue to cast a pall of uncertainty over the affected areas, many families persist in sleeping outdoors as a precautionary measure. Social workers are working around the clock to offer the indispensable support and guidance needed to help these individuals cope with the relentless challenges they face.
Joachim Mumba, IFSW President, remarked, “In addition to the immediate relief efforts and trauma-informed care, our colleagues in Morocco have undertaken the commitment of co-building sustainable shared futures with the communities they serve. They understand that recovering from a disaster of this magnitude necessitates meticulous long-term planning and collaborative efforts. Social workers are actively engaging with local leaders and community members to craft strategies for rebuilding and fortifying resilience. Together, they are relentlessly working towards creating a future where communities are better equipped to confront emergencies, and the bonds of solidarity are fortified.”
Pascal Rudin, IFSW Acting CEO, offered his solidarity and support, affirming that “IFSW stands shoulder to shoulder with our colleagues in Morocco during these trying times. We are unified in our unwavering dedication to provide essential support and care to the communities grappling with the aftermath of the earthquake. As social workers, we deeply comprehend the significance of global collaboration and assistance during moments of crisis. Together, we are toiling relentlessly to effect meaningful change in the lives of those in need and to shape a future that is more resilient and filled with hope for all.“