A Quarter-Century of Vision: The Transformative Reign of King Mohammed VI

King Mohammed VI presides over a Council of Ministers meeting at the Royal Palace in Rabat to examine the general orientations of the draft Finance Law for the year 2024 - PHOTO/MAP

Lahcen Haddad

31 de julio de 2024 (09:59 h.)

Economic Reforms

Under King Mohammed VI, Morocco's economy has undergone significant transformation. Policies have been implemented to attract foreign investment and stimulate growth. The introduction of the Common Enterprise Identifier (ICE) in 2011 streamlined administrative processes for businesses, fostering a more dynamic economic environment. The Green Morocco Plan, launched in 2008, modernized the agricultural sector, boosting production and positioning Morocco as a global agricultural player.

The 2014 Public-Private Partnership (PPP) law facilitated the mobilization of private resources for public infrastructure projects, enhancing the nation's capacity for innovation and development. Notable achievements include Africa's first high-speed rail line, inaugurated in 2018, and extensive expansions of highways and ports, which have significantly improved connectivity and trade.

The Plan Emergence Industrielle, launched in 2005, laid the foundation for modern industrialization, focusing on strategic sectors like automotive, aeronautics, and electronics. This initiative attracted major industry players, such as Renault-Nissan and the PSA group, establishing Morocco as a competitive industrial hub. The Industrial Acceleration Plan (PAI) of 2014 further intensified industrialization efforts, fostering business competitiveness and creating new industrial zones.

Morocco has also emerged as a leading tourist destination, thanks to policies like Vision 2010 and Vision 2020. These strategies diversified tourism offerings, developed new seaside resorts, and promoted cultural and historical attractions. The modernization of airports and the construction of new hotels have further boosted tourism, making it a major contributor to national GDP and employment.

King Mohammed VI's reign has seen significant social reforms aimed at improving the quality of life for Moroccans. The 2004 Equity and Reconciliation Commission addressed human rights violations from the ‘years of lead,’ providing recognition and redress for past injustices. In 2019, a report highlighted persistent inequalities, prompting the King to launch a comprehensive social protection reform in 2020. This reform aims to universalize health coverage, family benefits, and extend pension schemes by 2025.

Education has been a priority, with primary school enrollment rising from 87% in 1998 to 112% in 2017, and a substantial reduction in infant mortality from 63 deaths per 1,000 births in 1990 to 20 in 2017.

Political Reforms and Governance

Morocco has seen major political reforms under King Mohammed VI, notably the adoption of a new Constitution in 2011, which strengthened the separation of powers, judicial independence, and gender equality. Efforts to improve governance include decentralization and regionalization strategies launched in 2015, aimed at transferring more powers to local regions to address regional disparities and promote balanced development.

Initiatives to combat corruption, such as the creation of the Instance Nationale de Probité, de Prévention et de Lutte contre la Corruption (INPPLC), and transparency mechanisms in public resource management, have been crucial. Economic reforms have included liberalizing the services sector, promoting foreign investment, and enhancing the business climate to support sustainable growth.

International Engagement

Under King Mohammed VI, Morocco has strengthened its international engagement, particularly in Africa. The Kingdom's strategy of South-South cooperation has led to significant Moroccan investments in agriculture, financial services, and infrastructure across the continent. Morocco's return to the African Union in 2017 underscored its commitment to African solidarity and sustainable development.

Internationally, Morocco has played a key role in peacekeeping and mediation efforts, hosting dialogues on regional conflicts and promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue. The country's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development was showcased during COP22 in Marrakech in 2016. Morocco has also strengthened strategic partnerships with global powers, maintaining a balanced foreign policy based on sovereignty and national interests.

The Moroccan Sahara

King Mohammed VI has been pivotal in the management and development of the Moroccan Sahara, advocating for extended autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. The opening of foreign consulates in Dakhla and Laayoune since 2019 marks a diplomatic victory, enhancing Morocco's international support and contributing to the region's economic development.

Economic initiatives, such as the Southern Provinces Development Plan launched in 2015, have invested in infrastructure, renewable energy, and key sectors like fisheries and tourism. Social efforts have focused on improving education, health, housing, and promoting Sahrawi culture, integrating the region fully into Morocco's national development.

Challenges Ahead

Despite significant progress, challenges remain. Social and economic inequalities persist, and youth unemployment is high. Efforts to curb corruption and reduce bureaucracy are ongoing, as these issues continue to hinder economic development. Further improvements in governance and transparency are needed.

Conclusion

Over the past 25 years, King Mohammed VI has led Morocco through profound changes, driven by bold reforms and a clear vision of modernization. While challenges remain, the progress achieved reflects a strong commitment to making Morocco a prosperous, equitable, and influential country on the global stage. The King's reformist leadership has ushered in an era of development and modernity, attuned to the aspirations of the Moroccan people.