Rabat
In 1969, we were the first German political foundation to open an office in Morocco. For more than 50 years now, we have been working together with our partners from politics and civil society to promote democracy and an open society. In the wake of the Arab Spring of 2011, we are working specifically on training Morocco's women and youth so that they can shape the future and exploit the rights and freedoms they gained. We are permanently committed to strengthening Morocco's relations with its European partners, including of course Germany. And we like to comment on geopolitcal events from a rather unusual perspective: the North-Western tip of Africa.
News
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The solitary artist confronted with a fragile structure
Though its name is synonymous with irrevocable artistic diversity and ancient cultural riches, Morocco still fails to adequately support its rising artistic talent. Exploring the challenging realities for the nation's creatives. A compelling article by Salah Eddine, laureate of the seventh edition of the Olive Writers Creative Summer Camp.
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Morocco's free trade era: Are smallholder farmers missing out?
Morocco’s free trade agreements are an emblematic example of a double-edged sword. While they have fueled the economy’s growth, yet that success does not seem to be shared by everyone. On one hand, agribusiness giants thrive, on the other smallholder farmers, even though their position as the backbone of Morocco’s agriculture, are often sidelined. This article dives right through the depth of that story of both promise and disparity, while exploring what it takes to make trade genuinely inclusive.
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Echoes in the Dust: Moroccan Archaeology Unearths a More Inclusive Curriculum
Recent archaeological discoveries in Morocco ignite the longstanding debate about Amazigh representation in national identity. This article examines the critical implications of these scientific discoveries particularly on educational curricula, challenging the conventional narratives.
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The Culture of Withholding Information in Morocco: A Barrier to Progress?
From classrooms to boardrooms, a quiet culture of secrecy lingers in Morocco—stifling collaboration, slowing innovation, and eroding trust.
This opinion piece digs into the roots of this unspoken norm and makes a bold case: transparency isn’t just a democratic ideal—it’s the key to unlocking collective progress.
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Europe's supply chain ambitions, Morocco's business realities
The European Union aims to promote sustainable and responsible business practices globally. However, overregulation and increased bureaucracy entail the risk of hampering the free flow of goods and services. We have analyzed how Moroccan businesses prepare for EU supply chain regulations and what they expect from their European partners.
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Morocco’s year-long student uprising
Morocco’s new development model and 2030 World Cup plans earn global praise, yet systemic neglect in health and education questions its true priorities. Progress or mere facade?
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The Matrix Reloaded
Morocco represents a compelling case study in modern data geopolitics, particularly in its complex relationship with Western powers.
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Between a public outing and an internal battle - The multifaceted resistance of queer people in Morocco
Being queer in Morocco has many faces: on the one hand, stigmatisation and open homophobia are not uncommon; on the other hand, tolerance and freedom can be found where you might not expect them at first glance. The lives of queer people tell more than just the story of a marginalised community, but also portray a society of contrasts that is undergoing a dynamic process of change with no end in sight yet.
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CALL FOR A RESEARCHER: Enhancing Global Supply Chain Responsibility: Consequences of the EU supply chain law in Morocco.
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation is seeking an experienced researcher to lead a critical study on the implications of the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) on Moroccan businesses. The project will examine the challenges and opportunities for Moroccan companies adapting to these new regulations. Interested candidates with expertise in economics, international law, or business management are encouraged to apply by July 20, 2024.
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Political ambitions vs. daily reality: The persistent challenges of the Moroccan government mid-term
As Morocco's government reaches its mid-term, the gap between lofty political promises and harsh daily realities becomes starkly evident. With unemployment soaring, social inequalities widening, and education reforms stagnating, the nation's challenges are mounting.
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Gender Equality in the Bottleneck: What to Expect from the Changes to the Moroccan Family Code?
Morocco is reforming its family law, a process, which may fundamentally improve women’s and children’s rights. What are the hot issues, what outcome can be expected and what are the major obstacles to the reform?
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One small step for women's rights, one giant leap for Morocco
On the initiative of King Mohammed VI, the whole of Morocco is debating fundamental civil rights - a process that is a success regardless of the outcome. If it even leads to the abolition of child marriages, polygamy and unjust inheritance laws, this would send a signal to the entire MENA region.
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Navigating the shift: Ait Ben Haddou's Journey from Informal to Formal Economy
In the bustling markets and rural expanses of Morocco, a silent transformation is underway, steering the nation from the shadows of informality into the promising light of formal economic participation. This transition, pivotal for sustainable development, is encapsulated in a profound policy paper by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation and the NGO “We Speak Citizen”, focusing on the Tizwa Project in Aït Ben Haddou .
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Rethinking Liberalism in an uncertain world
In a global context marked by the rise of populism, the emergence of far-right movements, and the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, liberalism is facing unprecedented challenges. These turbulences are amplified by new technologies such as social media, which enhance the influence of populist leaders. This situation leads to a crisis of liberal democracy, characterized by political and social crises, increased polarization, and the rise of extremism. The media, confronted with misinformation, play a crucial role in preserving human rights and fundamental freedoms. -
Migrant Souls' Exhibition: A Mirror of Courage and Hope in the Heart of Rabat
On November 30, 2023, the old Palace of Justice in Rabat pulsed with the rhythm of souls and stories. The photographic exhibition "Migrant Souls: Tales of Courage" transformed this emblematic place into a gallery of vivid and poignant life stories. Each photograph depicts a life, a struggle, an aspiration for a better world.
