Evaluation of Disaster Risk Reduction Policies in Morocco: The Case of Earthquakes

Abstract

This study assesses disaster risk reduction policies following the 2023 Al Haouz earthquake in Morocco, focusing on four key areas: risk knowledge and assessment, prevention, emergency response, and recovery and reconstruction. The findings reveal notable policy shortcomings. In the area of risk knowledge and assessment, data were not consistently updated, and public awareness of surrounding risks remained low. Preventive measures also showed weaknesses; regulations were not fully enforced in land-use planning and construction monitoring, and essential infrastructure—including roads and critical facilities, particularly in rural areas—was lacking. For emergency response, crisis preparedness did not adequately consider scenarios tailored to the distinct characteristics of different regions. Finally, in recovery and reconstruction, the study highlights slow program implementation, largely due to a gap between financial capacity and expectations.