Morocco Fines Vaccinated Travelers Despite Valid Health Passes, Sparking Controversy

Some citizens were forced to pay a fine of 300 DH at certain gendarmerie checkpoints, despite presenting the vaccination pass. Human rights activists have denounced these facts on social networks. In light of these facts, an official said that "the circular of the Ministry of the Interior is clear on this matter".

In this circular addressed on July 5 to the walis, governors and all the security services of the kingdom, it was specified that "people with a vaccination pass can travel freely throughout the national territory without restriction". The vaccination pass is proof that its holder has received the two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine.

"The vaccination pass, with a QR code allowing it to be authenticated via a dedicated application, could be downloaded in printable or electronic format to be presented on a smartphone," the ministry said, adding that the document can also be collected, in paper format, from the local authorities of the vaccination center of the person concerned. However, this vaccination pass does not authorize circulation, whether you are vaccinated or not, during the curfew, i.e. between 11 p.m. and 4:30 a.m.