Author: Imane Lechheb
Morocco’s Renewable Energy Journey: Challenges and Ambitions In 2008, Morocco faced a crisis due to heavy reliance on foreign energy sources, leading to vulnerabilities in supply and price fluctuations. In response, King Mohammed VI outlined a new energy strategy focusing on reducing dependence on imports and embracing renewable energy. Despite facing setbacks, Morocco launched ambitious projects like the Noor Ouarzazate solar plant and wind farms to achieve its renewable energy goals. By 2019, the country had installed over 3,700 MW of renewable energy capacity, representing 34% of its total energy capacity. However, challenges like technical issues with concentrated solar power…
The Moroccan Government Approves Nearly 200 Investment Projects to Boost Economy The Moroccan government has recently given the green light to nearly 200 investment projects, signaling a significant milestone for the country’s economy. These projects, approved by the National Investment Commission (CNI), are expected to attract a total investment of 241 billion dirhams (approximately €22.32 billion). Head of government Aziz Akhannouch praised the decision as a reflection of the success of the new investment charter. Since its implementation, 115 projects valued at MAD 173 billion have been approved, leading to the creation of over 96,000 jobs across various sectors such…
Morocco Rises in Global Peace Index 2024 Morocco has made significant progress in the latest Global Peace Index (GPI) 2024, moving up 14 spots to secure the 78th position globally with a total score of 2.054. This ranking places Morocco 6th in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The top three countries on the index are Iceland, Ireland, and Austria, with rankings based on factors such as crime rates, incarceration rates, security personnel, and defense spending. On the other end, Yemen, Sudan, South Sudan, Afghanistan, and Ukraine were at the bottom of the list, classified as “red zones.”…
In 2023, the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) reported a significant 75% decrease in irregular migrants crossing from northern Morocco to Spain via land routes to Ceuta and Melilla, with only 467 arrivals. Enhanced security measures by both Moroccan and Spanish authorities contributed to this decline, with intensified efforts in northern towns like Nador. The report highlights the relocation of migrants from coastal areas to inland cities, while noting a slight increase in arrivals to the Canary Islands. Despite the crackdown, migrant smuggling networks have adapted by shifting departure points and methods to evade authorities. The report also…
Challenges and Perceptions of Public Services and Corruption in Morocco Recent findings from a survey conducted by the Arab Barometer network have shed light on the levels of satisfaction and perception of public services among Moroccans. The survey revealed that only a quarter of Moroccans are satisfied with the education system, down from 43% in 2016. However, satisfaction with healthcare has nearly doubled since 2018, with 44% of the wealthiest Moroccans reporting satisfaction compared to 26% of the poorest. Concerns about corruption in state institutions remain high, with three-quarters of Moroccans believing it is widespread. Disparities based on socioeconomic status…
Spanish Senate Approves Commission to Scrutinize Morocco’s Policies on Ceuta and Melilla The Spanish Senate has taken a proactive step by approving the formation of a special commission to examine Morocco’s policies regarding the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla. This decision comes in response to ongoing concerns about the impact of Morocco’s actions on these regions. Proposed by the People’s Party (PP), the commission has garnered support from the far-left parties but faced opposition from the ruling Socialist Party (PSOE). The PSOE argued that diplomatic efforts should aim to resolve differences with Morocco rather than escalate tensions. The PP…
Germany is actively seeking migration agreements with various countries, including Morocco, Georgia, and Colombia, to attract skilled workers and combat labor shortages. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the importance of these agreements in facilitating the entry of workers and specialists into Germany while also addressing the return of undocumented migrants to their home countries. With existing agreements with India and Georgia, Germany aims to expand its network further. Talks between Morocco and Germany are underway to streamline the process of attracting qualified Moroccan workers, excluding medical and nursing professionals due to shortages in Morocco. Competition with France to attract…
Morocco Aims to Make a Mark in the Video Game Industry Morocco is on a mission to establish itself as a key player in the video game industry, with plans to capture 1% of the global market and generate a staggering MAD 30 billion in revenue. This ambitious goal comes at a time when the video game industry is experiencing explosive growth worldwide, with annual sales surpassing $300 billion. In a recent address to the Council of Advisors in Rabat, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Communication, highlighted the need for Morocco to create a conducive environment to…
In a bold move against French regulations that bar women from wearing religious head coverings in press ID card photos, Moroccan journalist Manal Fkihi is challenging the status quo. The 25-year-old, who wears a hijab, recently appealed the rejection of her press card application, sparking a debate on religious expression and secularism in France. France’s strict policy of Laïcité, enforcing the separation of church and state, has led to regulations banning religious symbols in public institutions. The press card commission, CCIJP, defended its decision by likening press card photos to passport photos, citing security concerns. However, Fkihi and her lawyer…
Morocco takes a strong step towards enhancing its national defense by authorizing the creation of two military industry zones. These zones will attract investments and focus on developing domestic capabilities for producing weapons and ammunition, reflecting the country’s strategic intent to strengthen its military self-reliance. In line with this initiative, King Mohamed VI has directed the modernization of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) to adapt to evolving global tensions and enhance capabilities. The directive emphasizes technical modernization through equipment acquisition and personnel training to address emerging threats effectively. Recently, Morocco made a historic deal to purchase 131 fourth-generation F-16 fighter…