Mapping Morocco’s scientific contribution to the sustainable development goals (2015–2024): a bibliometric analysis

Sustainable development seeks to protect the environment, advance social well-being, and enable inclusive prosperity without leaving anyone behind. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) translate this ambition into a comprehensive research agenda. This study maps Morocco’s scientific output on the SDGs during 2015–2024. Based on 31,889 Scopus-indexed publications, which show a 19.3% annual growth rate, we analyse publication trends, thematic focus, collaboration patterns, and citation influence. We apply Bibliometrix (via Biblioshiny) and VOSviewer to conduct the analysis. Output concentrates in health, energy, and climate action (SDG 3, SDG 7, SDG 13), while poverty, education, and gender equality (SDG 1, SDG 4, SDG 5) are underrepresented. International collaboration centres on a narrow set of partners, and citation visibility lags growth. We interpret these patterns in relation to funding priorities, evaluation incentives, and disciplinary capacity, and outline actions to broaden thematic coverage, strengthen interdisciplinary teams, and deepen partnerships.