Algeria Releases 42 Moroccan Migrants: A Sign of Thawing Ties with Morocco?

Maghnia, March 1, 2025 – In a rare move, Algerian authorities have freed 42 Moroccan nationals detained after attempting to reach Europe, handing them over to Moroccan officials at the border. The transfer, which took place on February 28, 2025, between Algeria’s Colonel Lotfi post in Maghnia and Morocco’s Jouj Bghal crossing, has sparked speculation about a potential warming of the long-strained relations between the two North African neighbors. Here’s what happened and what it could mean.

Unexpected Release at the Border

On February 28, 2025, Algeria released 42 Moroccans who had been held for entering its territory illegally en route to Europe. The group was transferred to Moroccan custody in a coordinated handover at the Jouj Bghal-Colonel Lotfi border posts, a process that stands out given the two countries’ historically tense relationship. While Algeria has often detained Moroccans crossing its borders—sometimes for extended periods—this swift release hints at a shift in approach, at least on migration issues.

Details remain sparse, but the handover suggests a pragmatic step toward cooperation, a rarity since the land border between the nations closed in 1994. The move has caught the attention of observers tracking Algeria-Morocco dynamics, especially amid their shared challenges with irregular migration.

A History of Tension Meets a Moment of Relief

Algeria and Morocco have been at odds for decades, with the Western Sahara conflict at the heart of their rivalry. Algeria backs the Polisario Front’s claim to the territory, while Morocco asserts its sovereignty—a dispute that has fueled diplomatic ruptures, including the severing of ties in 2021 (Algeria–Morocco relations). Past incidents, like the 1975 mass expulsion of Moroccans from Algeria, known as the "Black March," underscore the depth of their friction (Expulsion of Moroccans from Algeria).

Yet, migration has occasionally forced limited collaboration. Both nations serve as key transit points for African migrants heading to Europe, a pressure point amplified by EU policies (Morocco and Algeria in European migration policies). The release of these 42 Moroccans could reflect a mutual interest in managing this flow, even if broader disputes persist.

Why This Matters Now

The timing of the handover aligns with mounting migration pressures in North Africa. Algeria has faced criticism for mass deportations of sub-Saharan migrants, while Morocco has earned EU support—€624 million in 2023—for its efforts to curb irregular crossings (EU launches new cooperation programmes with Morocco). The release of Moroccans may signal a quiet agreement to ease border tensions, especially as both countries grapple with security threats like extremism tied to migration routes (Algeria and Morocco's migrant policies could prevent violent extremism).

Social media posts on X noted the event as a possible “thaw,” though no official statements from either government have confirmed a policy shift. For now, it’s a practical act rather than a diplomatic breakthrough.

What’s Next for Algeria-Morocco Relations?

While this handover doesn’t erase deep-seated issues—especially over Western Sahara—it could pave the way for more coordination on migration and security. Analysts suggest that repeated actions like this, paired with dialogue, might signal a slow détente (Maghreb Disunion). However, with the border still closed and no signs of broader reconciliation, optimism remains cautious.

For Morocco, this aligns with its diplomatic push to strengthen regional ties, as seen in its recent gains in Latin America. For Algeria, it’s a chance to ease border friction without conceding on core disputes.

Event at a Glance

• Date: February 28, 2025
• Location: Jouj Bghal (Morocco) - Colonel Lotfi (Algeria) border
• Action: 42 Moroccans released and handed over
• Context: Migration attempt to Europe
• Significance: Possible step toward cooperation

Conclusion: A Small Step or a One-Off?

The release of 42 Moroccans by Algeria marks a fleeting moment of cross-border collaboration, hinting at a thaw in Algeria-Morocco relations. While it’s too early to call it a turning point, this move highlights shared migration challenges that might force practical partnerships. Keep an eye on border developments and official statements for signs of what’s next. For updates, check sources like Migration Policy Institute and Middle East Institute.