Country Profile
From The Report: Morocco 2013
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Largely spared the unrest that spread through the region as part of the Arab Spring, Morocco’s stability was in part thanks to subtle shifts in power brought about through constitutional changes in 2011 that further empowered parliament and devolved some responsibilities to regional authorities. A member of several regional and international bodies, Morocco has strong relations with a range of partners, especially the US and the EU, which is its largest trading partner.

This chapter includes a viewpoint from His Majesty King Mohammed VI, and interviews with Abdel-Ilah Benkiran, Head of Government; and Alistair Burt, UK Minister for the Middle East and North Africa.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

At the crossroads of continents: Diversity defines the country’s geography and people
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At the junction of multiple worlds, Morocco is characterised by diversity and complexity. The kingdom is perched on the western edge of the Arab region, on the north-west corner of Africa and is adjacent to the southern tip of Western Europe. It also sits astride both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In terms of linguistic diversity, the country hosts not only Arabic but also European and Amazigh languages. The landscape and cities are also strikingly varied, ranging from arid…

Overview

Constitutional changes: Reforms realign powers between the monarchy and the parliament
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Largely spared from the wave of political unrest that swept parts of the rest of the Middle East and North Africa region in 2011, Morocco did see protests by the February 20 Movement, named after the date of its first major demonstration. However, these were small in comparison to those seen in neighbouring countries such as Tunisia and Egypt. The movement demanded changes such as political liberalisation, a constitutional monarchy and increased efforts to tackle high-level corruption. Despite…

Interview

OBG talks to Abdel-Ilah Benkiran, Head of Government
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Interview: Abdel-Ilah Benkiran How has Morocco avoided the instability that struck other North African countries? ABDEL-LLAH BENKIRAN: In light of the broader context of the Arab Spring, our country has proven exceptional in terms of social stability. This is largely thanks to factors specific to Morocco, such as our secular monarchy and the way His Majesty The King addressed popular demands. Another factor is Morocco’s human and cultural diversity, which has helped keep the country balanced.…

Interview

OBG talks to Alistair Burt, UK Minister for the Middle East and North Africa
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Interview: Alistair Burt In what ways can the British private sector help stimulate or sustain job creation in Morocco? ALISTAIR BURT: Growth leading to job creation is important for Britain as well. In Morocco, British firms can bring a range of abilities and experiences to complement those of the local private sector, such as knowledge of new technologies, processes and markets. However, it is important that the local education system give people the skills that employers want. This is an area…