Hope for Moroccan Street Dogs as Court Condemns State Violence

In a landmark victory for street dogs, last month Morocco’s Administrative Court in Rabat found the Ministry of the Interior symbolically responsible for the widespread killing of stray dogs and cats. The judgment followed a case brought by a coalition of Moroccan animal protection organizations—including United for Creatures, the Moroccan Animal Rescue Association, the Chefchaouen Association for Kindness Towards Animals, Hand in Paw, and the Association for the Protection of Street Animals in El Jadida—which accused the government of engaging in mass killings of street dogs in the lead-up to the 2030 World Cup.

The plaintiffs argued that the violent round-ups, shootings, and poisonings of dogs violated ethical standards and caused severe harm to communities.

The animal welfare organizations called for an immediate end to the killings and sought symbolic compensation of 1 dirham to underscore that their fight was purely moral—not motivated by financial gain. Although the court declined to award compensation, it issued a judgment acknowledging the symbolic responsibility of the government in the culls. Campaigners believe this could mark a turning point in the effort to protect street dogs in the country and see it as a significant legal and moral precedent. Advocates hope the ruling will lead to stronger protections for street dogs and cats, and influence future legal and policy reforms.

Les Ward, chairman of the International Animal Welfare Protection Coalition (IAWPC), called the ruling a “key moment in the battle for animal welfare in Morocco.” He went on to note, “It may be symbolic, but symbols matter, and this could set a vital precedent for animal protection laws across the region.”

Species Unite is continuing to raise awareness in defense of the millions of street dogs in Morocco whose lives have been put in jeopardy by World Cup preparations. This community has come together in support of these dogs, sending over 15,000 letters to FIFA’s Secretary General, Mattias Grafström, and the FIFA Ethics Committee—urging them to hold Morocco accountable for its ongoing mass slaughter of street dogs. We will continue to apply pressure until this unthinkable violence against innocent animals ends.

If you haven’t sent a letter yet, click the link below to make your voice heard.