Cybersecurity and security experts have welcomed Morocco’s recent election to the position of Deputy Chair of INTERPOL’s Global Cybercrime Expert Group, calling it a significant milestone that reflects the country’s growing influence and expertise in combating cyber threats.
The appointment was made during the group’s inaugural annual meeting, held June 4–5 in Lyon, France, where INTERPOL convened cybercrime experts from around the world to strategize on emerging threats and collaborative enforcement efforts.
Morocco will be represented by a senior police commissioner and head of the Directorate General of National Security’s cybercrime division. In this leadership role, she will oversee the “empowerment” portfolio, which includes developing legal and technical frameworks to protect victims of cybercrime and building law enforcement capacity in investigating technology-related offenses.
Recognition of Moroccan Expertise
Cybersecurity expert and international consultant Tayeb Hezzaz said the election highlights the global recognition of Morocco’s growing technical and digital security capabilities.
“This appointment demonstrates increasing international trust in Morocco’s cybersecurity expertise,” Hezzaz told local media. “It positions the country as a strategic partner in tackling global digital threats.”
He added that the role also reflects Morocco’s institutional success in the field and underscores the country’s leadership in gender-inclusive security policy, as a Moroccan woman takes on a prominent international law enforcement role.
Strategic and Symbolic Significance
Ihsane El Hafidi, a professor and expert in security governance, said the appointment strengthens Morocco’s standing in the fight against cybercrime, aligning with the country’s national cybersecurity strategy extending to 2030.
“This decision adds to Morocco’s expanding role in global security cooperation, particularly in addressing emerging criminal threats,” El Hafidi said.
He also pointed to Morocco’s advanced legal infrastructure and growing technical surveillance capabilities as key factors in the country’s eligibility for leadership in international policing bodies such as INTERPOL.
The appointment follows recent Moroccan participation in major international security summits, including a high-profile visit to Moscow by the head of the national police, where cybercrime risks were prominently discussed.
Moving Toward Global Leadership
As part of her new responsibilities, Morocco’s representative will:
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Help establish procedures and mechanisms to empower cybercrime victims with access to protection and legal recourse.
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Work to equip law enforcement agencies worldwide with skills and tools for cyber investigations.
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Contribute to shaping international cybercrime policy.
Experts say the appointment confirms Morocco’s place among leading global players in cybercrime prevention and signals the country’s strategic ambition to influence future digital security standards and policies.
“This is more than a symbolic victory,” Hezzaz said. “It is a strategic step that puts Morocco at the forefront of international efforts to combat cybercrime—one of today’s most urgent global threats.”
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Morocco elected Deputy Chair of INTERPOL cybercrime experts team, boosting global cybersecurity role
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