The Moroccan model of sustainable and inclusive development has been hailed as a reference experience for Africa during an event held Wednesday evening in Geneva, on the sidelines of the 60th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC).
The National Initiative for Human Development (INDH) and the New Development Model for the Southern Provinces were particularly highlighted as a source of inspiration for the entire African continent during this meeting themed “Towards Sustainable Human Development in Africa: Social Inclusion, Reducing Inequalities, and Strengthening Local Dynamics.”
Speaking on this occasion, Gajmoula Boussif, president of the Sahara Observatory for Economic and Social Development (OSDES), emphasized that the Moroccan approach represents a concrete example of success in combating social inequalities and consolidating territorial justice.
Thanks to the INDH, launched in 2005, thousands of projects have emerged for the benefit of vulnerable populations, particularly women, through empowerment mechanisms and microcredit, she noted.
The New Development Model for the Southern Provinces, backed by a strategic investment of over 8 billion dollars, has transformed the cities of Laâyoune and Dakhla into major economic hubs open to the African continent, Ms. Boussif added, noting that these projects embody a clear vision of the Kingdom: “an equitable development anchored in the territories, fostering stability, prosperity, and South-South cooperation.”
Echoing this sentiment, experts and representatives from civil society and African and international institutions present referred to the Moroccan model as a “pioneering project” and a “successful showcase” of human-centered, inclusive, and sustainable African development.
Other voices, such as Nadah Alqalam, an academic, and Charlotte Bama, a representative of the Eliza Relief Foundation, also acknowledged the importance of strong national policies focused on fundamental rights, commending the coherence and continuity of Morocco’s strategic choices.
Organized by the Economic, Social, and Cultural Council of the African Union (ECOSOCC) and several partners, including Maat for Peace, CIDH Africa, OSDES, and the Major Group for NGOs, the panel highlighted the structural challenges facing the continent: poverty, poor governance, lack of infrastructure, and inequalities in access to healthcare and education. Furthermore, Morocco was unanimously recognized as a driving force for African development, offering tangible and reproducible solutions at the regional level.
Moderated by Moulay Lahsen Naji, executive director of CIDH Africa, the side event concluded with recommendations addressed to the African Union and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, specifically calling for the strengthening of human rights protection institutions, improving governance and transparency, expanding access to basic services, empowering women and youth, and ensuring fair and sustainable management of natural resources.
MAP