Barbary Monkeys: A Disturbing Attraction in Marrakech
In Marrakech, Morocco, a troubling spectacle has emerged that has captured the attention of tourists and animal rights advocates alike. Barbary monkeys, dressed in football jerseys, diapers, and sometimes even sunglasses, are being used as living attractions in the bustling Jemaa El Fna square. This practice, which has long been condemned by animal welfare organizations, has sparked renewed outrage following reports from hundreds of international visitors who have witnessed the distressing sight. The monkeys, often seen posing for photos with tourists, are not just enjoying a playful moment but are instead subjected to a life of confinement and exploitation.
To entice more tourists, the owners of these animals dress them in popular football jerseys, including those of famous players like Robert Lewandowski. The intent is clear: to lure visitors into paying for a souvenir photograph with the dressed-up monkeys, presenting a charming image that conceals a grim reality. Testimonials from tourists collected by the organization "Born Free" reveal that these animals are often chained by the neck, spending their days locked in cramped cages when not being used for photo opportunities. One particularly disturbed British veterinary nurse, Natasha Doyle, shared her dismay after her visit to Marrakech, stating that witnessing baby monkeys in diapers and adults being dragged on chains ruined her holiday experience. She noted the evident distress exhibited by the monkeys, who would tug at their collars, a clear sign of their constant suffering.
Endangered Species at Risk
The situation is alarming, particularly given that the Barbary monkey is classified as an endangered species in the wild. Primarily found in the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco, these primates have been under enhanced protection since 2016, in accordance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Despite their endangered status, however, they continue to be exploited for entertainment in Morocco. In the medina of Marrakech, the monkeys are treated as mere tourist attractions rather than as animals deserving of protection. According to "Born Free," this constant captivity leads to significant stress for the animals and has resulted in various incidents involving tourists, including bites that required medical attention.
Sarah Jefferson, a campaign manager with the organization, warns that the negative perceptions surrounding animal welfare due to the exploitation of Barbary monkeys and other animals in the city could tarnish Morocco's image as a tourist destination. She insists that this situation must come to an end once and for all, emphasizing that the spectacle is incompatible with the respect owed to an endangered species. The call to action directed at local authorities is clear: immediate and decisive measures are needed to put an end to this exploitation.
As reported by visa-algerie.com.
