Morocco: Digital violence targets female candidates ahead of 2026 elections

In Morocco, the Association Tahadi pour l’Égalité et la Citoyenneté (ATEC) has issued an alert regarding an increase in digital violence targeting female candidates ahead of the September 23, 2026, legislative elections.

The National Observatory for Protection Against Digital Violence reported various forms of attacks during July and early August, including insults, defamation, privacy violations, and the spread of disparaging content. These organized or repeated digital campaigns appear intended to damage the personal and political reputations of women and weaken their presence in the public sphere.

ATEC noted that such violence poses a significant barrier to political participation, potentially affecting candidates' sense of security, freedom of expression, and ability to campaign on equal terms. The organization intends to provide further data on female participation once final candidacy and election results are confirmed.