Morocco’s role in next Sahel war
Voltaire NetworkDec 24, 2021
The Facts
Moroccan lawyer Mourad Elajouti announced on Thursday that he issued a legal warning to Adidas regarding the design of its new Algerian jerseys on behalf of Morocco's Ministry of Culture. Morocco is demanding the German sportswear brand remove the design within two weeks.
Morocco is accusing Adidas of cultural appropriation as the jersey's blue, yellow, and teal patterned geometric shapes are similar to zellige, a Moroccan mosaic style.
The Spin
Narrative A
Morocco and Algeria are feuding over trivialities. The two countries have been in conflict with each other essentially since they gained independence, and this current spat over a jersey's design is just another installation in a long saga of war and bickering.
Narrative B
Morocco has every right to demand that Adidas change the jersey's design, as the zellige is an essential component of its cultural heritage. While arguments over a jersey may seem insignificant, the reality is that these shirts spread a message — in this case, the acceptance of cultural appropriation. This must be rectified.
