Green March

What Is Green March?

The Green March (Arabic: المسيرة الخضراء, Al Massira Al Khadra) is a significant national holiday celebrated in Morocco on 6 November each year. It commemorates a pivotal historical event that occurred in 1975, where King Hassan II orchestrated a large-scale, non-violent mass demonstration. This demonstration was aimed at asserting Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, a territory that was then under Spanish colonial administration.

The holiday serves to remember the collective national effort and determination that led to the eventual withdrawal of Spain from the region. It highlights a key moment in Morocco’s modern history regarding its territorial integrity. As a public holiday, it is marked by nationalistic displays and civic observances across the country.

History and Origins of Green March

The origins of the Green March are rooted in the decolonisation process of the mid-20th century. By the 1970s, Spain was facing internal pressure to relinquish its remaining colonial territories, including Spanish Sahara (now Western Sahara). Morocco, which had gained independence in 1956, historically laid claim to the territory, viewing it as an integral part of its pre-colonial empire.

In October 1975, following a World Court advisory opinion that acknowledged historical ties but not sovereignty without the consent of the people, King Hassan II of Morocco announced his intention to organise a peaceful march into the disputed territory. On 6 November 1975, approximately 350,000 unarmed Moroccan citizens, including 10% women, gathered near the border with Western Sahara. They carried Korans, green flags (symbolising peace and Islam), and portraits of the King.

The marchers crossed into Western Sahara, advancing a few kilometres before being called back by the King. This unprecedented peaceful demonstration exerted significant international pressure on Spain. Within days, the Madrid Accords were signed between Spain, Morocco, and Mauritania, leading to Spain’s withdrawal and the division of the territory between Morocco and Mauritania. Morocco subsequently took control of the northern two-thirds of Western Sahara.

How Green March Is Celebrated

In Morocco, Green March Day is a significant occasion for national pride and patriotism. The country observes a public holiday on 6 November, allowing citizens to participate in or observe the celebrations. The day is primarily marked by official ceremonies and public gatherings.

Across Moroccan cities and towns, flag displays are prominent, with national flags adorning public buildings and private residences. Schools often hold special assemblies and educational programmes to inform younger generations about the historical context and importance of the event. Speeches by government officials and local dignitaries reiterate the narrative of national unity and territorial integrity.

Television and radio channels broadcast documentaries, historical footage, and patriotic music dedicated to the Green March. The celebratory atmosphere aims to reinforce the Moroccan claim over Western Sahara and honour the participants of the 1975 march. Military parades and cultural performances may also take place in various locations, particularly in the southern provinces.

When Is Green March?

The Green March is observed annually on a fixed date: 6 November. This date commemorates the day in 1975 when the mass demonstration commenced. As a fixed observance, its date does not change from year to year.

The holiday follows the Gregorian calendar system. It is consistently marked as a public holiday throughout Morocco, meaning government offices, banks, and many businesses close for the day. Educational institutions also typically close, allowing for widespread participation in national commemorations.

Green March Key Facts