Harnessing Power Of Moroccan Diaspora: King Mohammed VI’s Vision For National Unity And Progress – OpEd
In his recent speech marking the 49th anniversary of the Green March, King Mohammed VI set forth an ambitious plan to revitalize Morocco’s relationship with its global diaspora, addressing the evolving role and potential of millions of Moroccans living abroad. This is not merely a policy shift; it is a call to action for an era where the Moroccan diaspora is positioned as a central partner in shaping the nation’s future. By restructuring the institutions that engage with overseas Moroccans, the King is weaving a tighter, more inclusive fabric of national unity that transcends borders and generations.
The significance of this initiative goes far beyond administrative reform. It reflects a deep-seated recognition that Moroccans abroad are not just citizens dispersed across the world, but are ambassadors, innovators, investors, and cultural torchbearers. Their bond with the homeland is resilient, marked by a patriotism that has often been forged in the fires of defending Morocco’s sovereignty and territorial integrity on the world stage. Yet, the King’s message this year was clear: patriotism alone is no longer enough. The Moroccan diaspora must be equipped with tools, resources, and streamlined processes to become active, dynamic contributors to Morocco’s progress.
Central to this new vision is the restructuring of diaspora institutions into two primary entities, each with a clearly defined purpose. The first, the Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad, is designed to serve as a reflection of the diaspora’s diversity, a forum for constructive dialogue, and a source of policy guidance. By pushing for rapid legislation to formalize the Council’s renewed mission, the King underscores the urgency of amplifying the voices of Moroccans abroad in shaping policies that affect them.
The second entity, the newly announced Fondation Mohammedia des Marocains résidant à l’étranger, will serve as the operational engine behind Morocco’s engagement with its diaspora. As an institution, it will consolidate previously fragmented efforts, coordinate a cohesive National Strategy for Moroccans Abroad, and manage a mechanism for mobilizing Moroccan talent worldwide. This move is not merely symbolic; it directly responds to long-standing calls from the diaspora for better access to participate in Morocco’s development. It is a channel through which talented and successful Moroccans worldwide can bring their expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and capital back to their homeland.
But the King’s vision extends beyond economic contributions. His call for the Foundation to bolster cultural, linguistic, and religious education for Moroccans abroad is a powerful reminder that the preservation of Moroccan identity is as much a part of nation-building as economic development. This approach signals a profound understanding that language, culture, and faith are not just private matters—they are pillars of national unity that must be actively nurtured, especially in a globalized world where these ties can easily fray over generations.
The King also pointed to one of the most pressing challenges facing the diaspora: the inefficiencies and complexities of administrative and judicial processes. Through the digitalization and simplification of these procedures, Morocco can remove a significant barrier to diaspora engagement, fostering a more seamless connection between Moroccans abroad and their homeland. If implemented effectively, this could be a game-changer, positioning Morocco as a global leader in government services for its expatriates.
At the core of this vision is an imperative to bring Moroccan expatriates into the fold as drivers of economic innovation. Currently, their investments account for only 10% of Morocco’s private domestic investments—a figure that is strikingly low given the diaspora’s vast economic power. King Mohammed VI’s call for a dramatic increase in diaspora-led investments reflects a new era of inclusion, where Moroccans abroad are seen not merely as contributors, but as co-architects of Morocco’s economic future.
Perhaps most significant, though, is the underlying theme of mobilization. In these times, as Morocco asserts its territorial integrity and strengthens its international standing, the support of Moroccans abroad is indispensable. The King’s speech reflects the reality that Morocco’s fight for sovereignty is not just a domestic issue; it is a global campaign that requires the strength and solidarity of Moroccans everywhere.
King Mohammed VI’s address is a blueprint for a Morocco that is more resilient, more inclusive, and more ambitious. By building bridges with its diaspora, Morocco is not only securing resources and skills for national growth but is also championing a model of unity that is adaptable, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in shared values. This is the legacy of the Green March: a call for unity that, fifty years later, is being answered by Moroccans around the world.
