Geneva, Switzerland – A Sahrawi human rights defender has leveled serious accusations against Morocco, alleging the systematic deployment of Pegasus spyware to monitor and intimidate journalists and activists in the disputed territory of Western Sahara. Ghalia Abdallah Djimi, speaking at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, condemned what she described as a calculated campaign to suppress dissent and violate fundamental rights.

Djimi asserted that Moroccan authorities are exploiting the sophisticated Pegasus spyware, developed by the Israeli NSO Group, to infiltrate smartphones and access personal data, microphones, and cameras without user consent. She particularly highlighted the targeting of women, who are subjected to “systematic defamation and intimidation campaigns” as part of a broader strategy to silence critical voices.

“This targeting is not isolated but part of a broader pattern used to silence free voices,” Djimi stated, emphasizing the pervasive nature of the surveillance. She underscored that the use of such advanced technology represents a “grave violation of international law.”

The Pegasus spyware, intended for combating crime and terrorism, has been repeatedly implicated in the surveillance of activists, journalists, and political figures worldwide. In Morocco, reports suggest its use against domestic dissidents and even foreign officials, contributing to heightened diplomatic tensions. Notably, the 2021 revelations of widespread surveillance of Algerian phones by Moroccan authorities exacerbated already strained relations, leading to Algeria severing diplomatic ties with Morocco.

Djimi called on the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Privacy to launch a comprehensive investigation into the use of Pegasus in Western Sahara and other regions. She also urged the international community, including civil society organizations in Europe and the US, as well as the African Union, to take “urgent” action to protect privacy and freedom of expression.

“We must halt these repressive practices that threaten human rights defenders in the region,” Djimi implored, stressing the need for immediate and decisive action.

The accusations come amid ongoing international scrutiny of the use of spyware by governments to suppress dissent and violate human rights. The call for a UN investigation underscores the growing concern over the misuse of advanced surveillance technology and the urgent need for international accountability.

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