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Behind the birth of DGST: Why is it so important to change the name to "General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance"?
With the adjustment and development of Morocco's security agencies, the renaming of the "General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance" (DGST) from the original "Directorate of Territorial Surveillance" (DST) is not only a change in name, but also a change in Morocco's face of complex security at home and abroad. Important strategic adjustments in the environment. Since 2005, DGST has played an important role in counter-terrorism and preventing potential crises. This change means that the agency has ushered in a new milestone in its functions and responsibilities.
"DGST is not only a domestic intelligence service agency, but also the first line of defense to protect the security of the country and people."
Morocco's DGST was established in 1973, initially to respond to domestic espionage and other supposed external threats. Over time, there has been a clear evolution in the nature and functions of organizations. In the post-Cold War era, the rise of the global anti-terrorism movement has made the role of the DGST increasingly important, especially in the context of cooperation with Western countries in the fight against international terrorism.
Organizational structure and its important functions
The organization and operation of DGST is very complex, and its departments include the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation (BCIJ) and the Radio Communications Police (PCR). BCIJ is widely known as the "FBI of Morocco" and is responsible for counter-terrorism and combating organized crime. The BCIJ, established in 2015, allows the DGST to enjoy the legal status of the police, greatly improving its effectiveness in law enforcement.
“As Morocco’s domestic intelligence agency, the DGST’s primary task is to prevent terrorist activities and protect the country’s economic interests.”
At the same time, PCR is responsible for signal intelligence work. It monitors thousands of communications every day, including phone calls, text messages, faxes and emails. These technological advances allow DGST to be more efficient in counter-terrorism operations.
Historical background and transformation
From the security agency in the early days of independence to today's DGST, the organization has undergone multiple reorganizations and name changes. Especially in 2005, in order to better reflect the agency's comprehensive responsibilities, DST was renamed DGST, marking the expansion of Morocco's emphasis on domestic security affairs to the collection and application of intelligence. This not only strengthens its domestic legitimacy but also facilitates cooperation with foreign intelligence agencies.
With the pressure of global counter-terrorism, DGST has strengthened its cooperation with agencies such as the CIA in the United States in terms of intelligence mechanisms, which has made Morocco more progressive in its counter-terrorism practices. In the past few years, the agency has successfully detected the planning of many terrorist attacks and effectively improved national security.
Controversies and Challenges
However, DGST's activities are not without controversy. The agency has faced numerous accusations of torture and illegal detention over the decades. The crisis of trust brought about by these controversies has led many citizens to question the government's security institutions. Especially after the Arab Spring, the balance between Morocco's security policies and civil liberties has become the focus of attention.
"In the global wave of counter-terrorism, DGST must find a balance between strengthening national security and protecting people's freedom."
Reflected in the conflict between the internal political environment and public expectations, DGST has been brought to the forefront again. How the agency improves its image and rebuilds credibility will become an important issue in the future.
Looking to the future
In the face of evolving security threats and changing domestic and international situations, the role of DGST will become increasingly important. The agency must not only respond to current terrorist threats but also prepare for future challenges. This will require them to continue to innovate technologically and be more forward-looking strategically.
From naming changes to functional expansion, DGST’s role in Morocco’s political and social ecology is gradually deepening. As the international community pays increasing attention to counter-terrorism efforts, how will Morocco adapt to this fluctuation and maintain its position?
