Improving access and utilization of sexual and reproductive health services by migrant women in Morocco: A...

Introduction-Aim: Over the past decade, Morocco has become a major migratory corridor in the Mediterranean, hosting an increasing number of migrants, particularly from Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators to accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for migrants in Morocco, while exploring the socio-cultural, economic, administrative, and linguistic factors that influence access.

We employed qualitative methods through focus group discussions (FGDs) with migrant women (n = 24) and men (n = 24). A total of 48 participants, residing in Morocco for at least three months, were selected, all of whom had experience with public healthcare facilities for SRH services. The study was conducted in July 2024 in two regions (Rabat and Casablanca).

The majority of the 48 participants were young adults aged 18 to 34 (61%), mainly from Côte d'Ivoire (60%). Although all spoke French, only 6% had medical coverage, and 23% had a source of income. The main obstacles identified were lack of information, stigmatization, language and cultural barriers, as well as administrative and economic difficulties. Facilitators included a quality welcome, support from associations and NGOs, confidence in Moroccan health services, support from health professionals, and free access to certain services.

The results highlight significant difficulties migrants face in accessing healthcare in Morocco. Efforts are needed to enhance inclusion, reduce discrimination, and simplify administrative procedures to improve access to healthcare for migrants.