Rabat: The International Scientific Symposium on Security at Major Sport Events has commenced in Rabat. This three-day event is organized by the Moroccan Ministry of Justice in collaboration with the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, Morocco’s Directorate General of National Security, the Royal Gendarmerie Command, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation. Additionally, the event partners include the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, the International Organization for Migration, and the Arab Police Sports Union.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the symposium is aligned with Morocco’s upcoming role as host of the 2025 African Cup of Nations and its collaboration with Spain and Portugal to co-host the 2030 World Cup. The event sees participation from ministers, senior officials, and experts from globally recognized institutions such as FIFA, continental confederations, Interpol, Europol, and the Council of Europe, among others. Representatives from various justice, interior, secu
rity, and sports sectors are also present, alongside researchers and specialists in sports event security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and organized crime.

The symposium aims to explore the security, legal, and organizational aspects of securing major sporting events amid ongoing digital transformations. It seeks to facilitate the exchange of expertise among the diverse actors involved in sports event security, enrich discussions on legal and regulatory frameworks, and evaluate sport’s role in preventing violent extremism and organized crime while enhancing social cohesion.

The program includes scientific sessions addressing challenges and opportunities in the digital age, the role of sport in combating extremism and crime, and international best practices in event security. Participants will discuss crowd management, the integration of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, legal frameworks, and judicial processes related to sports event security, alongside planning for future sporting events.

Th
e symposium will also highlight international experiences in organizing and securing major sporting events, referencing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Council of Europe Convention on Safety and Security at Sporting Events, and the UK’s stadium security management practices.