Casablanca – In a landmark move aimed at enhancing the role of Moroccans residing abroad (MREs) in national development, King Mohammed VI has unveiled a significant restructuring of the institutions managing diaspora affairs. This reform seeks to streamline governance, improve coordination, and foster stronger connections between MREs and their homeland.

The restructuring involves the reorganization of two key institutions: the Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad (CCME) and the Mohammedia Foundation for Moroccans Living Abroad. The goal is to address the complexities and overlapping functions that have historically hindered efficient management of MRE affairs. King Mohammed VI emphasized the need for a unified framework, one that reflects the evolving realities of the diaspora and strengthens its institutional support.

The reform is seen as a response to an assessment conducted in 2022, which identified gaps in governance and coordination for MRE-related issues. By separating the roles of the CCME and the Mohammedia Foundation, Morocco aims to eliminate duplication of efforts and create more effective channels for addressing the needs of its citizens abroad.

CCME: A new role for advocacy and representation

Under the new structure, the CCME will become an independent institution with a focus on advocacy, reflection, and proposals for MRE issues. As a constitutional body, the CCME will be tasked with representing the diverse interests of MREs and promoting direct dialogue between them and Moroccan authorities. King Mohammed VI stressed that the CCME must assume its role as a platform for reflecting the concerns and aspirations of the diaspora, providing a stronger voice for Moroccans abroad in national policy discussions.

Meanwhile, the Mohammedia Foundation will serve as the operational arm of Morocco’s national strategy for MREs. The foundation will centralize the management of all initiatives related to diaspora affairs, coordinating programs and services to better meet the needs of Moroccans abroad. This consolidation of responsibilities is expected to create a more coherent and efficient approach to supporting the diaspora, while also fostering a more effective environment for investment, cultural exchange, and social integration.

Fostering economic engagement

One of the key objectives of the reform is to boost the economic participation of MREs. Currently, their contribution to Morocco’s private sector investments is limited to just 10%. King Mohammed VI’s speech highlighted this as an area of concern, urging the diaspora to play a more significant role in driving economic development through investments in various sectors.

Barriers to MRE investment, such as bureaucratic hurdles and lack of information, have long been cited as obstacles to greater engagement. The Mohammedia Foundation will work to simplify investment procedures, providing a one-stop service for MREs and offering incentives like tax breaks and access to financing. These efforts are designed to make it easier for Moroccans abroad to invest in their home country, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic economic environment.

Cultural and educational support for future generations

In addition to economic concerns, King Mohammed VI also stressed the importance of preserving the cultural, linguistic, and religious ties between Morocco and its diaspora, especially for younger generations. By promoting Arabic and Amazigh language education, as well as providing cultural programs and religious support, the reform aims to strengthen the attachment of MRE youth to their heritage. The Mohammedia Foundation will play a crucial role in delivering these services, ensuring that future generations of Moroccans abroad remain connected to their roots while thriving in their host countries.

A vision for the future

The restructuring of MRE governance represents a significant step forward in Morocco’s efforts to integrate its diaspora into the country’s broader development plans. By improving institutional coordination, fostering economic investment, and ensuring cultural continuity, the reform aims to empower MREs as active participants in shaping Morocco’s future. The creation of these more effective structures reflects King Mohammed VI’s recognition of the vital role that Moroccans abroad play in the nation’s prosperity.

As Morocco embarks on this ambitious reform, the Mohammedia Foundation and the CCME are set to become central pillars in the country’s engagement with its diaspora, laying the foundation for a new era of collaboration and mutual growth.