ROYAUME DU MAROC

FORCES ARMEES ROYALES

ACADEMIE ROYALE MILITAIRE
PROMOTION 2021-2025

MEMOIRE DE FIN D’ETUDES

Pour l’obtention du Diplôme des Etudes Universitaires et Militaires

Military Service in Morocco as a Type of

Public Service: Between Obligation and
Volition
(A Monograph Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
for the B.A Degree in English)

Submitted by Cadets: Supervised by:

Cadet HAMMA Imane Dr. Naima LOUMMOU
Cadet ACHEBDAN Mohammed Assisted by:
Cadet BOULIKA Mohamed amine Lieutenant BENEZHA
Members of the Jury:
Dr. Naima LOUMMOU

1
Academic Year: 2023-2024
 Table of Contents;
Dedication

Acknowledgements

Abstract

Introduction:

1-Background of the Study…………………………………………………………….9

2- Statement of the Problem ………………………………………………………….11

3- Objectives of the Study………………………………………………………….…11

4- Significance of the Study…………………………………………………………..12

5- Limitation……………………………………………………..……………………13

6- Scope ………………………………………………………………………………14

7- Methods of the Study……………………………………………………………....14

7.1. Research Design ………………………………………………………...14

7.2. Data Collection…………………………………………………………...14

7.3.Data Analysis……………………………………………………………...15

8- Literature Review………………………………………………………………….16

PART I: MILITARY SERVICE AS PUBLIC SERVICE :

1-Definitions…………………………………………………………………………….
2- Historical Survey……………………………………………………………………..
3- Theoretical Framework……………………………………………………………….
3.1. Overview of Relevant Theories……………………………………………..
3.2. Integration of Psychological and Philosophical Theories ………………….
4- Psychological Struggles of Obligation:………………………………………………
4.1. Emotional Impact…………………………………………………………...
4.2. Identity and Autonomy……………………………………………………...
5- Volitional Aspects of Military Service……………………………………………….
5.1. Intrinsic Motivations ……………………………………………………….
2
 5.2. Philosophical Notions of Volition…………………………………………..
6- The Clash of Obligation and Volition …………………………………...…………...
6.1. Coping Mechanisms………………………………………………………...
6.2. Psychological impacts………………………………………………………

PART II: MILITARY SERVICE IN MOROCCO AND BEYOND:

1-The Context of Military Service in Morocco …………………………………………….......

1.1. History of Mandatory Service ……………………………………………...

1.2. Characteristics of Moroccan Military Service ……………………………...

1.3. Current Public Opinion:…………………………………………………….

2-Lived Experiences of Military Service in Morocco ………………………………….

2.1Diverse Perspectives:…………………………………………………………

2.1.1. Conscripts themselves: …………………………………………………...

2.1.2. Families: ………………………………………………………………….

2.1.3. Military Personnel ………………………………………………………..

3-Specific Issues and Challenges ……………………………………………………….

3.1. Gender and Military Service: ………………………………………………

3.2. Exemptions and Inequality: ………………………………………………...

3.3. Alternative Forms of Service: ……………………………………………...

4-The Future of Military Service in Morocco:…………………………………………..

4.1. Potential Reforms: ………………………………………………………….

4.2. Long-Term Impacts: ………………………………………………………..

5. Comparative Case Studies: Exploring Diverse Models of Military Service………….

5.1 Compulsory Service with Long Duration:…………………………………..

5.1.1South Korea: ……………………………………………………….

5.1.2 Israel: ……………………………………………………………...

3
 5.2 Professionalized Volunteer Military:………………………………………..

5.2.1United States: ……………………………………………………....

5.2.2United Kingdom: …………………………………………………..

5.3 Alternative Service Options :………………………………………………..

5.3.1Austria:……………………………………………………………..

5.3.2Finland: …………………………………………………………….

PART III: DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS:

1. Data Source: ……………………………………………………………………

2. Data Collection: ………………………………………………………………...
3. Data Analysis: ………………………………………………………………….
4. Discussion of the Findings: …………………………………………………….

CONCLUSION:

APPENDEX:

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

4
 Dedication

We dedicate this research paper to the unwavering support and encouragement of our
families, whose love and understanding has been our constant anchor. Their sacrifices and
belief in our abilities have fueled our pursuit of knowledge.

To our academic advisors, whose guidance and expertise have shaped the trajectory of our

research, we express our deepest gratitude. Your mentorship has been invaluable, and we are

fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from your wisdom.

We also extend our appreciation to our friends and colleagues who have provided

camaraderie, inspiration, and constructive feedback throughout this academic endeavor. The

collaborative spirit within our academic community has been instrumental in our growth as a

researcher.

Lastly, we dedicate this work to the subjects and participants who generously contributed

their time and insights. Your willingness to be part of this study has enriched the depth and

quality of our research.

This paper stands as a testament to the collective efforts and support that have shaped our

academic journey. Thank you for being an integral part of this milestone.

5
 Acknowledgments

We owe a debt of gratitude to all those who contributed to this research, no matter the

size of their role. Their collective efforts have enriched this work in profound ways.

With utmost respect and sincerity, we acknowledge the invaluable contributions of

Major General, Director of the Royal Military Academy, for his unwavering support

throughout our academic and military endeavors, making this project's completion a true

testament to perseverance.

Professor Naima LOUMMOU's invaluable guidance and insightful expertise proved

instrumental in shaping this monograph. Her unwavering dedication served as the cornerstone

of our research journey, illuminating the complexities of the obligation-volition dynamic

within Morocco's military service. We navigated this intricate terrain with confidence, guided

by her meticulous mentorship that transcended the traditional supervisor-student relationship.

Through countless insightful discussions, fueled by shared passion and intellectual pursuit, the

seeds of this research were sown and nurtured.

We also express our profound gratitude to lieutenant Benzha whose unwavering

support, insightful advice, and meticulous directives provided an invaluable foundation for

this research. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the entire staff and cadets of the Royal

Military Academy, whose collaborative spirit and willingness to assist at every turn were

instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

To all who contributed, named or unnamed, our deepest thanks. Your collective efforts

have enriched this work beyond measure.

6
 Abstract

Volition and obligation have always been focal notions when it comes to military service

around the world. As such, this research paper aims at analyzing the correlation that exists

between these two concepts as far as military service in Morocco is concerned. As a starting

7
point, there will be a brief historical account of the military service in Morocco. Also, some

concepts and theories, which are necessary for the theoretical framework, will be defined and

dwelt upon. In the second part, there will be a comparison between the volitional aspects of

military service such as intrinsic motivations and philosophical notions of volition, and the

psychological effects of obligation like the emotional impact on identity.

This paper’s methodology consists of different steps that begin with a description of the

study’s qualitative design, including interviews and surveys. Next, there will be a justification

for the chosen sample size and selection. Finally, an explanation of data collection procedures

and methods of analysis will be provided. The results deduced will be analyzed in order to

shed light on the concepts of volition and obligation as far as military service is concerned.

The paper will be concluded by a summary of findings and a set of recommendations based

on the analysis of the data collected beforehand.

Introduction

1- Background of the Study

In recent years, there has been a global shift which consists of moving away from

compulsory military service, with a growing emphasis on the development of volunteer-based

service which has taken place in many countries, leading to public debates in nations like

8
France, Britain, and Italy. This shift is influenced by factors like increased geopolitical

tensions that have taken place around the world as the example of Russia after its intervention

in Crimea in 2015 which has led to rising security concerns.1

Conversely, many Arab countries have opted to reintroduce compulsory military

service since the beginning of the 2010’s. To mention some examples, there is Kuwait which

reinstated this system in 2017. Also, Qatar adopted it for the first time in 2013 for its

professional armies. Another example happened after the Cold War when about 24 European

nations abandoned mandatory military service, while 15 European countries retained that

system. Finally, the UAE followed suit after a reevaluation of its military conscription has

taken place in 2014.2

On August 20, 2018, marking the 65th anniversary of the King and People's

Revolution, the Ministerial Council approved a new law known as the Compulsory Military

Service Bill. This law applies to Moroccans aged 19 to 25 and reduces the service duration

from 18 to 12 months, as outlined in the Royal Decree of 1966. The decision received mixed

reactions, with some considering it crucial for national security, while others criticized it as an

infringement on individual rights and a burden on young people. Although the law grants

certain rights to those serving, such as wages, compensation, and health coverage, it does not

allow individuals to refuse service for conscientious reasons as a form of conscientious

objection. Instead, it imposes additional duties, including the responsibility in order to

safeguard and protect national defense secrets.

Moroccan authorities have justified the reintroduction of compulsory military service

through several key reasons. Primary among these is the goal to strengthen national identity,

instill values of discipline and responsibility in Moroccan youth, and foster respect for

1
International Institute for Strategic Studies (February 2021). "The Military Balance, Volume 121, Issue 1
(2021)". The Military Balance. London: Routledge. 121 (1). ISSN 0459-7222.
2
Ibid.
9
institutions. During the opening speech of parliament in October 2018, the King emphasized

that military service "enhances the sense of belonging to the homeland and provides training

opportunities that open doors for the professional and social integration of qualified conscripts

displaying responsibility and commitment."3 Additionally, compulsory military service is

intended to contribute to the promotion of social cohesion and integration among young

Moroccans, particularly in the face of escalating regional tensions such as the cases of Riffian

and Sahrawi regions and ethnic tensions such as those between Amazigh and Arab people.

Another objective of this service is that it can serve as a recruitment channel for various

security services, including the police, auxiliary forces, fire-fighters and prison

administration. Furthermore, the military service is seen as a means to rehabilitate and employ

unemployed youth, especially if the focus during their service includes vocational and

technical training.

2- Statement of the Problem

The problem raised in this paper lies in the moral conflict between the individuals’

right to choose their own path and to make their own decision, on the one hand, and the

government's obligation to ensure national security, on the other hand. The Moroccan

government has a legal mandate to ensure national security which often involves maintaining

a strong military force. Mandatory military service is seen as one way to achieve this goal by

providing a consistent stream of personnel. Individuals, however, have the right to

choose their path in life. This right is often seen as fundamental to individual liberty and

autonomy. Mandatory service infringes upon this right to some extent, as individuals are

compelled to serve regardless of their personal aspirations. The core tension lies in finding a

balance between individual freedom and national security. Ideally, a system should be created

that respects individual rights while still ensuring that the nation's defense needs are met.
3
https://mipa.institute/en/6451
10
 3- Objective of the Study

This study aims to investigate the multifaceted impact of military service in Morocco on

individuals, families, and communities, with a particular emphasis on how it shapes

experiences, influences identity formation, decision-making processes, and civic engagement.

By examining these aspects, the research seeks to uncover the broader social and personal

implications of military service. Additionally, a comparative perspective will be employed to

analyze and contrast Morocco's approaches to military service with those of other countries.

This comparative analysis will consider the role of cultural context, historical background,

and social values in shaping the intricate dynamics of obligation and volition within the

context of military service. The overall objective is to conduct a comprehensive examination

of the historical and societal dimensions of military service in Morocco in addition to

providing suggestions and recommendations to policymakers about the issue of obligation and

volition when it comes to military service. This approach aims to contribute to the refinement

of military service practices in Morocco while fostering a nuanced understanding of its role

within the nation's socio-cultural framework.

4- Significance of the Study

The examination of military service in Morocco as a type of public service that straddles

both obligation and volition holds significant weight in understanding its multifaceted

contributions to national security, individual development, and societal progress. Military

service serves as a cornerstone of national security, providing the armed forces with the

necessary personnel and skills to defend the nation's sovereignty and protect its citizens.

Individuals who engage in military service contribute to national security by developing

expertise in areas such as combat operations, intelligence gathering, and strategic planning.

Beyond its role in national security, military service serves as a catalyst for individual growth

11
and development. Through exposure to challenging environments and demanding situations,

individuals cultivate valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-

solving. Furthermore, military service fosters societal progress by promoting values such as

patriotism, civic duty, and social responsibility. Individuals who engage in military service

instill a sense of national pride and contribute to the collective well-being of society. Their

commitment to serving the nation inspires others and sets an example of selfless dedication to

the common good. By fostering leadership skills, promoting civic values, and enhancing

employability, military service instills a sense of national pride and strengthens social

cohesion, contributing to the nation's stability and driving societal progress.

5- Limitation

Researchers investigating Moroccan military service face inherent limitations such as

restricted access to sensitive information and an absence of comprehensive sources in

multiple languages. In the context of military service in Morocco, the limitation of access to

information refers to potential challenges researchers may face when trying to obtain sensitive

or classified data related to military policies, conscription, and other relevant aspects.

Governments often restrict access to certain military information for security reasons.

Researchers may encounter obstacles in obtaining detailed insights into the inner workings of

military service, especially if certain data is considered confidential. This limitation can affect

the depth and accuracy of the analysis, potentially leaving gaps in understanding key aspects

of military service. Just as a locked door hinders access to secrets, the lack of readily available

sources in various languages acts as a barrier to understanding the full picture. Reliance on

English and Arabic excludes the voices and experiences of a significant portion of the

Moroccan population who speak Berber dialects or other minority languages. This can lead to

an incomplete and potentially biased understanding of how military service is perceived and

12
experienced across the diverse linguistic landscape of Morocco. For instance, relying solely

on Arabic sources might overlook unique cultural values and attitudes towards military

service held by Berber communities. Similarly, neglecting minority languages could exclude

perspectives from specific regional contexts or marginalized groups.

6- Scope

This research delves into the complex interplay of obligation and volition in Morocco's

post-2019 mandatory military service, focusing on specific regions and the evolution of the

system within its historical context. Analyzing legal frameworks, social pressures, and

individual motivations of diverse recruits (e.g., age range, socio-economic backgrounds,

rural/urban demographics), it explores how young Moroccans navigate this nuanced space.

Through interviews with both mandatory and voluntary recruits, the study aims to understand

how Morocco balances obligation with a desire to foster voluntarism. It also examines

voluntary service programs, assessing motivations and societal impacts. Ultimately, the

research seeks to identify limitations and opportunities for enhancing the effectiveness and

fairness of the system, offering valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers and

stakeholders.

7- Methods of the Study

7.1. Research Design

This study adopts a qualitative approach to capture the perspectives and experiences of

individuals regarding their involvement in military service in Morocco. The research employs

in-depth interviews and surveys as the primary means of data collection, facilitating a

thorough investigation into both psychological and philosophical aspects.

13
7.2. Data Collection

Participants are chosen based on their involvement in military service in Morocco,

encompassing both mandatory and voluntary experiences, in order to capture a wide range of

perspectives. The inclusion criteria take into account individuals who have either completed

or are presently involved in military service, representing diverse demographics, ranks, and

branches. Moreover, the data collection method will consist of in-depth interviews with open

ended questions.

7.3. Data analysis

Thematic analysis of the qualitative interview data will reveal recurrent themes and

patterns pertaining to will and obligation.

In order to quantify and triangulate important psychological insights gleaned from

qualitative findings, survey data will be examined using the proper statistical techniques.

8. Literature review

The reintroduction of compulsory military service in Morocco in 2019 ignited a

firestorm of debate, plunging the nation into a unique labyrinth of obligation and volition. On

one hand, the government framed the program as a cornerstone of national security,

promoting social cohesion and forging disciplined citizens imbued with patriotic fervor. For

many young Moroccans, however, this mandatory service emerged as an unwelcome specter,

disrupting their carefully laid plans for education, careers, and personal lives.

The Middle East Eye article "Young Moroccans See Opportunities in Revived

Military Service" presents “a contrasting perspective on the reintroduction of mandatory

14
military service in Morocco.”4 While many oppose the obligation, the article highlights the

“views of young Moroccans who see the service as offering potential opportunities and

benefits.”5 For some, the service presents a pathway out of unemployment and financial

hardship. The guaranteed income, stability, and access to healthcare and other benefits can be

particularly attractive for those struggling to make ends meet. Others see the service as a

chance to acquire valuable skills and training, like leadership, teamwork, and technical

expertise. This can enhance their employability and open doors to further education or career

advancement. Furthermore, the article highlights the appeal of the service for those seeking

personal development and self-improvement. The disciplined environment, physical and

mental challenges, and character-building aspects can be attractive to young people looking

for structure, self-discovery, and a transformative experience.

Despite the Moroccan government's stated aims of bolstering national identity,

fostering social cohesion, and enhancing security through the reintroduction of compulsory

military service, the initiative has since encountered significant resistance. The Youth

Gathering against Compulsory Military Service, formed just five days after the bill's approval

in August 2018, voiced their opposition, citing the government's lack of transparency and the

rushed nature of the implementation process.6 Furthermore, concerns regarding the absence of

the law in both party platforms and the official government program were raised. Adding to

the growing dissent, human rights organizations, such as the Moroccan Human Rights

Association (AMDH), condemned the draft as a violation of individual freedoms, particularly

freedom of thought and conscience. They advocated for the legal “recognition of

conscientious objetions and appropriate legislative protection for those opposed to military

4
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2021/12/346028/mandatory-military-service-offers-
promising-future-for-moroccan-conscripts
5
Ibid.
6
Communication of the Youth Gathering against ِCompulsory Military Service, 25 August
2018.
15
service on doctrinal or humanitarian grounds.”7 Thus, the reintroduction of compulsory

military service in Morocco has faced immediate and multifaceted challenges, with concerns

of ambiguity, procedural irregularities, and potential human rights violations forming the core

of the opposition.8

Ibid.
7

8
Ibid.
16
 PART I
MILITARY SERVICE AS
PUBLIC SERVICE

17
 1- Definitions

Since this paper sheds light on military service in the light of volition and obligation, it

is of paramount importance to define the two concepts in the light of different philosophical

theories. It also should be mentioned that the two concepts can be interpreted from different

angles, namely social, cultural, political and even psychological angles. But before that, a

deconstruction of the paper’s title is required in order to contextualize the topic of the

research.

The title of this paper, which is Military Service in Morocco as a Type of Public

Service: Between Obligation and Volition, contains different key words. To start with, we

have military service which refers to a specific period, which varies from one country to

another, in which individuals, who are selected according to certain criteria, are obliged to

serve their country in the military. In Morocco, military service, as has been mentioned

beforehand, takes two forms; it is either mandatory or voluntary. Concerning the former form

of servie, Morocco has recently recruited “10,000 Moroccans into mandatory military service

in 2019, to be increased to 15,000 in 2020.”9 Citizens concerned with this recruitment are

“men between the ages of 19 and 25. Women and Moroccans Residing Abroad (MREs) are

exempt but encouraged to voluntarily enlist. Parliamentarians and members of the

government are also exempt from military service.”10 Those military recruitments are

supposed to spend twelve months in the service doing different tasks and their ranks differ

according to various criteria such as their educational levels, their experience, their age, and

their diplomas.11

The second relevant expression from the title is ‘public service.’ This is meant to

emphasize that military service does not serve any private companies, or any personal interest

9
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2019/04/270255/morocco-compulsory-military-service
10
Ibid.
11
Ibid.

18
of any person in the country. On the contrary, it is considered as an act of public service

whose participants are members of the public itself working for the common good. For this

reason, only Moroccan citizens are allowed to serve in the military and they must take an oath

as part of their induction. The oath consists of pledging allegiance to “God: Creator of all

destiny, by His Mercy we draw from, He ordains our choice to right path. The Fatherland:

Land that begets our bounty, from which we sustain ourselves we protect its integrity and

defend it from all enemies. King: Our commander and guide, he guides our renaissance and

development, protector of our people's rights."12 This clearly shows that military soldiers

solely serve the public by placing only god, the fatherland and the king as their top priorities.

Therefore, military service is indeed a pure form of public service which is meant to protect

the nation against any form of threats under the command of his majesty the King.

The final part of the title which ought to be put under scrutiny consists of two terms.

The first one is obligation which is defined by Cambridge dictionary as “something that a

person feels morally or legally forced to do.”13 This is the case when it comes to mandatory

military service in Morocco. That is, according to Moroccan law, “"failure to perform military

service is punishable by a month's to a year's imprisonment in peacetime; two to ten years' in

wartime."14 This shows that evading mandatory military service is punishable by law as it is

considered as citizens’ duty towards their country. Moreover, people who evade military

service are considered as traitor in the sense that they refuse to fulfill their moral duty as

protectors of their own land and by refusing the King’s direct orders. On the other hand, the

word volition, which is defined by Cambridge dictionary as “the power to

make your own decisions,”15 is meant to show that people have the power, or rather the

freedom of choice, to join the military if they are qualified. In other words, in the context of

12
"Constitution of Morocco, 1992".
13
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/obligation
14
1958 Moroccan Code of Military Justice
15
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/volition

19
military service, volition refers to individuals’ freedom to join, or to refuse, the service. As

such, they are not bound by any legal, nor moral, obligation. The balance between the two

concepts is the main concern of this paper which brings to the fore the conflicted opinions on

these matters and Moroccan military’s approach towards them.

2- Historical Survey

Since Morocco has gained its independence from the French colonial project on May

14, 1956, Royal Armed Forces (FAR) have been established as the main military organization

in Morocco. The FAR is made up of the Royal Army, the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy,

the Royal Gendarmerie and the Royal Guard.16 The main and sole mission of Morocco’s

military forces has always been ensuring the country’s security and stability. Yet, since 1990s,

critical questions started to arise concerning how to avoid a strategic surprise, how military

forces can be continuously and efficiently adapted to geostrategic and security problems.

Also, there has been much talk about the best military training models to adapt.17 The solution

to such inquiries has been dealt with in King Mohamed VI’s speech in the parliament in

October 2018 in which his majesty has clearly stressed the importance of re-operating

compulsory military duty due to its numerous benefits when it comes to the preservation of

the Moroccan country and identity. As such, it secures the safety of the country as well as

strengthening the sense of community and belonging “For Morocco, [which has benefited

from compulsory military duty] in a number of ways…first, strengthening national identity,

enhancing the values of discipline and responsibility among Moroccan youth, and educating

on respect for institutions.”18 But, before delving into more details, it is crucial to go through

the history of the Moroccan military in order to gain more insights on its structure, its

purpose, its resources and its strategies, especially when it comes to recruitment.
16
(REPATS, Brasília/Brazil, Special Issue, n.02, Jul-Dec, 2019)
17
Ibid.
18
Smail Hamoudi https://mipa.institute/en/6451

20
 To begin with the roots, it is important to mention that the history of Morocco, as an

ancient kingdom with a long history, has been marked by several dynasties who have all

depended on military forces to protect their lands and to expand them in need. From the very

beginning, the region, which is now the Kingdom of Morocco, has been subject to Roman

colonialism followed by Arab conquest all the way to the ruling of dynasties such as the

Almoravid dynasty, Almohad Caliphate, Marinid dynasty, Wattasid dynasty, Saadi dynasty

and finally the Alaouite dynasty which has been ruling Morocco ever since. Through this long

history, Morocco has seen different wars against different colonizers including the French, the

Portuguese and the Spanish armies. Thus, large numbers of soldiers has always been in

demand to achieve peace and to fight enemies.

It is important to note that the first official Moroccan military forces are “those of the

Mauri Berber Kingdoms from around 225 BCE.”19 However, it is only until 14 May 1956 that

the Royal Armed Forces has been establish during the reign of King Mohamed V who has

gained the country’s independence right “after the French Protectorate was dissolved in

1955.”20 The advancement of the military as it is today is owed to both King Hassan II and

King Mohamed VI who have given priority to acquiring modern warfare equipments, learning

from other countries military experiences such as the case with the United States of America,

and taking good care of the military personnel who have either joined the military by

obligation or by volition as will be demonstrated in the following chapters.

Moroccan citizens, long before the Royal Armed Forces has been founded, have been

recruited by different sides. For instance, during the period of French colonialism, they have

been recruited by France as part of its Army of Africa under military division such as the

Spahi and Tirailleur regiments. They have also served as part of the Free French Forces and

19
International Institute for Strategic Studies (February 2021). "The Military Balance, Volume 121, Issue 1
(2021)". The Military Balance. London: Routledge. 121 (1). ISSN 0459-7222.
20
"57e anniversaire de la création des FAR". 2014-05-16. Archived from the original on 2014-10-06.
Retrieved 2014-10-03.

21
the French Expeditionary Force. Similarly, Moroccan citizens have also been part of the

Spanish army.21

From the day it has been established until now, Moroccan military forces have played

an important role in shaping modern Morocco as we know it today. They have engaged in

different battles whether to fight off colonizers or to maintain the countries safety against

terrorist groups such as the so called Polisario. Therefore, the country invests a lot of money

and effort to ensure that the military is well equipped and ready to do its job. It is granted an

estimated amount of 5.38 billion dollars as its budget.22 This budget includes the expenses of a

great number of personnel which “as of 2019, there was a total of 246,000 armed forces

personnel in the country. The number increased from 245,800 in the previous year.

Throughout the period reviewed, the military labor force in Morocco remained above

240,000. In 2021, Morocco ranked as the 5th most powerful military in Africa after Egypt,

Algeria, South Africa, and Nigeria.”23 Such as huge number of military personnel is one of the

main factors, if not the most important one, which grants Moroccan military its strength and

its efficiency as an army force. This paper will focus on the way those individual have been

recruited in order to measure the success of this strategy when needed.

3- Theoretical Framework

Discussing obligation and volition in military must be done within a theoretical

framework based on some philosophical and cultural theories which would help understand

the reason why both forms of recruitment are adapted by the military forces. Moreover, it will

help understand the mixed reactions of the military personnel and other individuals about this

21
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Moroccan_Armed_Forces#cite_note-ReferenceA-8
22
<a href='https://www.macrotrends.net/countries/MAR/morocco/military-spending-defense-budget'>Morocco
Military Spending/Defense Budget 1960-2024</a>. www.macrotrends.net. Retrieved 2024-01-25.
23
Number of armed forces personnel in Morocco 2000-2019
Published by Statista Research Department, Jan 15, 2024

22
matter. Furthermore, this paper will bring to the fore the transformations that military

personnel go through after joining the military. Those transformations will be analyzed on the

level of their psychological state, their social behavior and their beliefs. This will be topped

with a comparison between the personnel who have been recruited by obligation and those

who have joined by volition.

Identity, as a fluid concept, will also be dealt with in the senses that personnel’s identities

are affected, or rather changed, since they go from being civilians to becoming military

personnel responsible for protecting civilians and abiding by different rules. Therefore,

deconstructing identity, as a concept, in the light of the changes it goes through is crucial to

understand the effect of joining military forces.

3.1. Overview of Relevant Theories

Several philosophers have debated the notion of obligation in its relationship to human

nature and morality. For instance, Immanuel Kant has always stressed the importance of

fulfilling one’s duties as part and parcel of moral integrity. Therefore, according to Kant,

moral obligations are a means to achieve morality and to be responsible individuals. For him,

an individual’s worth is strictly related to his, or her, moral obligations and the extent to

which they respect them.24

Obligation, as a concept, can also be detected in Consequentialist theories such as

utilitarianism. This philosophical notion has been tackled by different philosophers who

believe that individuals’ worth is related to their utility. In other words, they believe that all

individuals must work for one great, common good of their society. As such, both theories are

called Consequentialist theories and utilitarianism as references to consequences and utility

which are the main criteria and the central values. Such theories have been advocated by

24
Tyson, Louis. Critical Theory Today : A User Friendly Guide. Taylor & Francis Group,2006.

23
Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill who have always been interested in the relationship

between individuals, society and culture.

The nature of volition and obligation can also be traced back to another philosophical

concept which is the social contract. This concept is advocated by theorists like Thomas

Hobbes and John Rawls who explain that “moral obligations arise from implicit or explicit

agreements among rational agents. Obligations are based on social contracts or agreements

that individuals enter into for mutual benefit or to maintain social order.”25

The aforementioned theories prove that the notions of volition and obligation have

always been the center of debate and discussion. Similarly, in the context of military service,

the way of recruiting personnel by obligation is considered as a controversial issue. However,

based on those theories, it can be justifiable for the following reasons. First, it is considered as

a moral obligation since defending the country is everyone’s responsibility and duty as

citizens who enjoy different rights. Living in peace is not guaranteed since there are enemies

who plot against the country’s unity and security. Therefore, there will always be a need for

military defense. The second reason is that this responsibility must be shared between

citizens. To illustrate, military service, as a public service, is meant to be provided by

qualified citizen who meet the criteria for the sake of all citizens. Therefore, there must be

equality and justice when it comes to recruiting personnel. The only way to guarantee that

justice is mandatory recruitment which does not discriminate. Finally, military service is

considered to be a great opportunity for personal and even professional development. That is,

the varied and extensive military training that personnel go through enables them to acquire

different skills which can be considered as very important in life in general and in case there

is a national emergency. Also, it is a means to show all citizens the great efforts made by their

country, under the leadership of his Majesty the King, in order to maintain stability so that

they can always be grateful. As will be shown in the following chapter, many individuals have
25
Barry, Peter (2002), Beginning Theory:” An Introduction to Literary and. Cultural Theory”.

24
positive reactions when it comes to their experience in the military service during that specific

period of twelve months. Some of them even confess that, surprisingly, they have discovered

that they were in need of such training to open their eyes to different experiences.

On the other hand, critics of mandatory military service claim that it is against the very

notion of freedom it is trying to protect and maintain. They claim that it is a violation against

their personal freedom and their personal rights as free citizens. Therefore, they believe that

joining the military by volition is the best option. All those conflicting views will be discussed

in the following chapter.

3.2. Integration of Psychological Theories

From a psychological perspective, there are several psychological factors that

influence the decision to serve in the military, such as motivation, identity, and abiding by

social norms and influences. Therefore, there is a need to examine the psychological impact

of military service on individuals and communities, including the effects of trauma, stress,

and readjustment. Moreover, motivation theories will help to understand what drives

individuals to serve in the military, while trauma and stress theories can help to understand

the psychological challenges that military personnel may face during and after their service.

Additionally, identity and social norms theories can help to understand how military service

shapes individuals' sense of self and their place in society, and how it is influenced by cultural

and social expectations.

For motivation theories; these theories can help to understand what drives individuals

to serve in the military, such as a sense of duty, patriotism, or the desire for personal growth

and development. Motivation theories can also help to explain how military leaders can

motivate their troops to perform at their best during training and in combat situations.

In the context of identity theories, military service can have a significant impact on an

individual's sense of self and their identity. Identity theories can help to understand how
25
military service shapes individuals' sense of self and their place in society, and how it is

influenced by cultural and social expectations.

3.3. Integration of Psychological Theories

From a psychological perspective, there are several psychological factors that

influence the decision to serve in the military, such as motivation, identity, and abiding by

social norms and influences. Therefore, there is a need to examine the psychological impact

of military service on individuals and communities, including the effects of trauma, stress,

and readjustment. For this reason, motivation theories will be explored in order to understand

what drives individuals to serve in the military, while trauma and stress theories can help to

understand the psychological challenges that military personnel may face during and after

their service. furthermore, identity and social norms theories can help to understand how

military service shapes individuals' sense of self and their place in society, and how it is

influenced by cultural and social expectations.

To start with Motivation theories, it is of paramount important to mention that there

are two major types of motivation. The first one is intrinsic motivation which can be defined

as a motivation that “involves psychological rewards that individuals derive directly from a

task.”26 As such, it is strictly related to an individual’s sense of self-pride and satisfaction. The

second type of motivation is extrinsic motivation. It is characterized by “engaging in an

activity to obtain an outcome that is separable from the activity itself.” 27 Those types of

motivation can be used to explain what drives individuals to serve in the military. For

instance, the sense of duty and patriotism are both examples of intrinsic motivation which

drive citizens to join the military service. On the other hand, the desire for personal growth

and development can be considered as an example of extrinsic motivation. This can also

26
Thomas, K. W. and B. A. Velthouse (1990). Cognitive elements of empowerment: An "interpretive" model of
intrinsic task motivation. Academy of ManagementReyjew, 15(4): 666-681.
27
deCharms, 1968; Lepper & Greene, 1978
26
explain how military leaders can motivate their troops to perform at their best during training

and in combat situations.

Another way motivation theory plays an important role in understanding individuals'

willingness to engage in military service can be found in Maslow's hierarchy of needs.

According to this theory, individuals are motivated to fulfill basic physiological and safety

needs before other needs like belongingness and esteem. Military service, often perceived as

providing security and a sense of belonging to a larger community, can appeal to individuals

seeking fulfillment of these needs.28 Furthermore, Self-Determination Theory posits that

intrinsic motivation, driven by autonomy, competence, and relatedness, leads to greater

satisfaction and persistence in activities.29 Also, military service offers opportunities for

personal growth, skill development, and camaraderie, aligning with intrinsic motivational

factors. Additionally, social identity theory suggests that individuals derive a sense of identity

and belonging when they join groups such as the military.30 Thus, motivation theories provide

valuable insights into the factors that influence individuals' decisions to serve in the military.

When it comes to identity theories, it is obvious that military service can have a

significant impact on an individual's sense of self and their identity. This latter, as a

philosophical issue, has been tackled by different philosophers amongst which we can

mention David Hume who demonstrated that identity can be identified as “a bundle of

perceptions and experiences that constantly change and flow.31” Therefore, according to

Hume, the accumulation of different experiences is an essential factor in shaping ones

identity. In this case, joining the military service, and the whole experience in general, will

definitely affect the identity of the personnel as it can be considered as a remarkable event in

their lives that would change them a lot. Jean-Paul Sartre is another philosopher who presents

28
(Maslow, 1943).
29
Deci & Ryan, 2000
30
Tajfel & Turner, 1986).
31
"A Treatise of Human Nature," David Hume

27
his own views on identity. As he argues in his work Being and Nothingness, “individuals are

fundamentally free to create their own identities through choices and actions, but this freedom

also entails responsibility and angst.”32 This is similar to Hume’s principle when it comes to

the relationship between identity and the individual’s experiences. However, Sartre adds the

notion of freedom to the equation as he believes that individuals are free to make their own

choice at certain instance, and therefore they are responsible for the outcome.

Cultural and social expectations are other important factors that influence individuals’

identities. In our case, as will be demonstrated in the Data Analysis section, a great number of

cadets state that they feel pressured by the social expectation before and after joining the

military service. They believe that they have to meet certain expectations as they have a huge

responsibility as military personnel. Also, they also believe that they are somehow responsible

for the image of the military in people’s minds.

3.4. Psychological Struggles of Obligation

By relying on theories from the fields of psychology previously, we could offer

explanation how there are different psychological factors which influence individuals’

decisions to join the military. In the following paragraphs, psychological effects of joining the

military service will be brought to the fore.

3.5. Emotional Impact

The emotional impact of joining the military by obligation is the first aspect to be

investigated as far as the psychological effects of joining the military are concerned. To begin

with, it is important to note that Morocco reintroduced “conscription in 2019, enforcing a 12-

month compulsory draft for all those aged between 19 and 25.”33 This period from a citizen’s

32
David Hume, Being and Nothingness.
33
https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/military-service-in-morocco-pursuing-social-and-security-goals-
130545#:~:text=Morocco%20reintroduced%20conscription%20in%202019,of%20internal%20and%20external
%20factors.

28
age represents a transition from adolescence to actual adulthood. Also, it is a transitional stage

when it comes from educational and professional perspectives. Assigning such a huge

responsibility and obligation to people at that age may “result in short- and long-term

disadvantages, especially when they occur during a stage in the life course that is

accompanied by major changes, such as the transition from school to work, moving out of

parental homes or starting a family.”34 This is mainly due to a feeling of being constrained and

restricted for a whole year. As such, this may result in different forms of emotional damage

such as depression, regret, over-thinking and anxiety. Such negative emotions can be felt by

both the personnel and their families since they are separated for that whole period by

obligation. However, positive emotions may also be brought about due to mandatory service.

For example, the military cadets may feel proud and more encouraged since they have been

assigned such an important role and responsibility. As will be demonstrated afterwards, the

emotional impact can differ according to cadets’ perspectives.

The emotional impact of joining the military, particularly by obligation during a

crucial stage of life, can be deeply profound. Exposure to combat, life-threatening missions,

or serious training accidents during military service can subject individuals to traumatic

experiences. These intense and distressing events, as discussed earlier, may lead to negative

emotional outcomes such as depression, regret, overthinking, and anxiety. Importantly, these

emotional challenges are often compounded by the risk of developing Post-Traumatic Stress

Disorder (PTSD). The subsequent statistics on PTSD among veterans reveal the stark reality

of the toll that military service can take on mental health. For instance, veterans who have

served in recent conflicts, such as Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, exhibit

34
Brzinsky-Fay, C., and Solga, H. (2016). Compressed, postponed, or disadvantaged? School-to-work-transition
patterns and early occupational attainment in West Ger-many. In: Research in Social Stratification and Mobility,
46, 21–36.

29
higher rates of PTSD, underlining the enduring impact of traumatic experiences on the

psychological well-being of military personnel.35

U.S. Veterans of Different Service Eras:

The number of Veterans with PTSD varies by service era. The data below are from a large

study of Veterans across the country:

Service Era PTSD in the Past Year PTSD at Some Point in Life

Operations Iraqi
Freedom (OIF) and 15 out of 100 (15%) 29 out of 100 (29%)
Enduring Freedom
(OEF)
Persian Gulf War 14 out of 100 (14%) 21 out of 100 (21%)
(Desert Storm)
Vietnam War 5 out of 100 (5%) 10 out of 100 (10%)

World War II (WWII) 2 out of 100 (2%) 3 out of 100 (3%)

and Korean War

Figure 1: Beyond the Battlefield: The Lasting Impact of War on Veterans' Mental
Health.
Veterans from Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF) have the

highest rates of PTSD at 29%, followed by the Persian Gulf War (Desert Storm) at 21%. The

prevalence of PTSD decreases for veterans of older conflicts, with Vietnam War veterans at

10% and World War II/Korean War veterans at 3%. This could be due to several factors,

including improved mental health screening and treatment. Over time, awareness and

understanding of PTSD have increased, leading to better identification and treatment for

veterans.

35
Prevalence of PTSD among veterans: National Center for PTSD. [Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)].
Veterans Affairs (.gov). Retrieved February 4, 2024, from
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/ptsd_basics.asp: :

30
31