Morocco’s Regionalization Drive: A Gamble on Growth?
Table of Contents
Morocco is undertaking a meaningful restructuring, accelerating its advanced regionalization process in a bid to jumpstart economic growth and tackle persistent regional inequalities. This ambitious plan, championed by President Mbarka Bouaida of the Association of Regions of Morocco, aims to empower local governments and unlock economic potential across the country. The initiative echoes similar efforts in the United States,where local control and economic development initiatives are frequently enough at the forefront of policy discussions.
Speaking at the second National Forum on Advanced Regionalization in Tangier, Bouaida highlighted the progress made since the frist forum five years ago. She emphasized the need to build on this foundation, stating, “The organization of this forum today comes five years after the first forum and almost nine years of practice in the field of regionalization within the framework of the constitutional and legislative climate currently in force.”
Bouaida, also president of the Guelmim-Oued Noun region, stressed the importance of moving beyond the foundational work of the previous mandate. She urged for a focus on implementation and acceleration, stating, “if we consider that the previous mandate was founding thanks to the adoption of several practical measures, in particular with regard to the completion of the legal and regulatory framework, the current mandate must be that of the implementation and real acceleration of contents of the constitution and organic law 111.14 relating to the regions, and thier support to achieve good governance in the management of their affairs and the exercise of their powers.”
The core of Morocco’s strategy is to make regionalization a cornerstone of its new development model. Bouaida explained, “Morocco has chosen to make advanced regionalization a central axis to build the new development model, by focusing on the region and considering it as a vital space for the implementation of public policies and an important source of wealth creation material and immaterial. It also plays a basic role in strengthening integrated and lasting development. The development model recommended the urgency of implementing advanced regionalization with effective decentralization.”
However, Bouaida acknowledged the challenges ahead. She warned that simply expanding regional powers isn’t enough. “Despite the achievements made, reality has shown that, whatever the expansion of the regions’ powers, this will remain insufficient if they are not clarified at the legal and procedural level and if the current challenges and future impacts, likely to slow down the implementation of regionalization policies, are not taken into account,” she said.
The need for collaboration is paramount. Bouaida emphasized the importance of a “constructive debate between all territorial actors, institutions, economic actors, experts, academics, civil society and international partners, to face the challenges of today and of tomorrow with all the rigor underlined by the royal speech.” She also highlighted the resilience of the Moroccan people in the face of adversity, stating, “We are all called to strengthen the present and future of regional Morocco by relying on the positive achievements made, which have shown that the path of regionalization and the place of the regions in the institutional structure have made it possible to obtain numerous achievements that must be valued despite the arduous circumstances experienced by Morocco, in particular the COVID-19 pandemic, the Al-Haouz earthquake, not to mention the effects of climate change and the constraints it has generated.”
The success of Morocco’s regionalization hinges on addressing key challenges, including attracting investment, ensuring sustainable development, and managing crises related to water scarcity and the digital transition. Bouaida’s call for clarity in legal and procedural frameworks, coupled with a collaborative approach, suggests a steadfast effort to overcome these hurdles and build a more prosperous and equitable future for Morocco.
Morocco’s Regionalization Drive: A Gamble on Growth?
Morocco is embarking on a bold initiative to decentralize power and stimulate economic growth through a process known as advanced regionalization. this ambitious plan, championed by President Mbarka Bouaida of the Association of regions of Morocco, aims to empower local governments and unlock economic potential across the contry. The strategy echoes similar efforts in countries like the United States, where local control and economic development initiatives are often at the forefront of policy discussions.
Shifting Power to the Regions
Senior Editor,World-Today news: Dr. Khalil, Morocco’s regionalization process has gained significant momentum in recent years. Could you elaborate on the goals of this initiative and its intended impact on the country?
Dr. Khalil benaissa, Political Science Professor, Mohamed V university, Rabat: Certainly. At its core, this advanced regionalization process aims to redistribute power and resources to Morocco’s regions. The intention is to enable them to take a more active role in shaping their own destinies. this means greater autonomy in decision-making regarding local development projects, economic strategies, and social programs.The hope is this will unleash the entrepreneurial spirit and economic potential that lie dormant in many regions.
building on Foundations: From Theory to Action
Senior Editor: President Bouaida has emphasized moving beyond the foundational work of the previous mandate and focusing on implementation. What are some of the key challenges in turning this regionalization vision into reality?
Dr. Benaissa: You’re right, President Bouaida’s recent statements highlight this critical transition.While progress has been made in setting up the legal framework for regionalization, translating that into tangible results on the ground is the next major hurdle. We’re talking about building institutional capacity, ensuring effective coordination between regional and national governments, and securing adequate funding for regional initiatives. Overcoming these challenges will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders.
Striking a Balance: Decentralization and National unity
Senior Editor: Some critics express concerns that decentralization could perhaps lead to fragmentation or weaken national unity.How does Morocco aim to balance regional autonomy with the need for national cohesion?
Dr. Benaissa: That’s a valid concern, and it’s one that Morocco’s policymakers are actively addressing. The emphasis is on finding a workable balance – devolving power to the regions without undermining the overarching national framework. The constitution itself upholds the principles of national unity and territorial integrity. It’s a delicate balancing act, requiring clear communication, mutual respect, and a spirit of collaboration between the center and the regions.
Senior Editor: Dr. benaissa: They’re absolutely critical. Regionalization can only truly succeed if it tackles these fundamental issues head-on. Attracting investment is essential for economic growth, but it needs to be done sustainably, respecting the habitat and local communities. Regional governments need to be equipped to manage resources effectively, adapt to climate change, and embrace digital technologies to boost competitiveness. Senior editor: Dr.Benaissa, thank you for sharing your insights.Looking ahead, what are some of the key indicators that will reveal whether Morocco’s regionalization gamble will pay off? Dr. Benaissa: You’re welcome. Look for signs of increased investment in the regions, a reduction in regional disparities, improved public service delivery at the local level, and a growing sense of citizen participation in regional decision-making. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will be judged by its contribution to a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future for all Moroccans.
Some experts point to challenges such as attracting investment, promoting lasting development, and managing crises like water scarcity or the impacts of digital conversion. How crucial are these issues in the success of Morocco’s regionalization strategy?
Looking Ahead: An Uncertain Future
Related posts:
