The Executive Council of the African Union (AU) is a key body that plays a central role in decision-making and implementation of AU policies. At the recent session of the Executive Council, Morocco expressed its desire to promote strong and unified African leadership. This position comes at a time when the continent faces many challenges, from economic crises to conflicts and environmental issues. Capmad discusses Morocco’s proposals for African leadership, the associated challenges and the implications for the continent’s future.
Background: The African Union and its challenges
The African Union, founded in 2001, has a mission to promote the integration and development of African countries. However, the AU faces major challenges. According to the African Development Bank’s 2022 report, the continent recorded economic growth of just 3.4% in 2022, well below initial forecasts. In addition, political crises, conflicts and natural disasters continue to hamper the development of many African countries. In this context, African leadership is more crucial than ever to coordinate efforts and find lasting solutions.
Morocco and its role in the AU
Morocco, which rejoined the AU in 2017 after a 33-year absence, has always advocated for strong African leadership. The country has put forward a number of initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation between Member States. In 2023, at the AU Executive Council, Morocco proposed several courses of action to promote effective African leadership.
Strengthening regional cooperation
Morocco underlines the importance of regional cooperation in addressing common challenges. In 2022, intra-African trade accounted for only 15% of the continent’s trade, according to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Morocco proposes to strengthen regional trade agreements, including through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to increase intra-African trade to 25% by 2030.
Promotion of peace and security
Peace and security are essential conditions for development. Morocco proposes to strengthen mechanisms for conflict prevention and crisis resolution. In 2022, the AU recorded 12 active conflicts on the continent, according to the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) report. Morocco advocates a proactive approach, focusing on preventive diplomacy and inter-African dialog.
Sustainable development and climate change
Morocco also stresses the importance of sustainable development and the fight against climate change. In 2021, the country hosted COP22, where it announced its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2030. Morocco proposes to strengthen African sustainability initiatives, including through renewable energy and sustainable agriculture projects. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa could generate 310 GW of renewable energy by 2030, transforming the continent’s energy landscape.
Education and training
Morocco emphasizes that human capital development is essential for effective African leadership. In 2022, UNESCO reported that 60 million children in Africa are out of school, and Morocco wants a major investment in education and vocational training to prepare young people for labor-market challenges. This includes the promotion of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) to encourage innovation and competitiveness.
The Implications of Morocco’s Proposed African Leadership
Morocco’s African leadership has profound implications for the continent’s future. By strengthening regional cooperation, promoting peace and security, addressing environmental challenges, and investing in education, Morocco seeks to establish a model of inclusive and sustainable development. It could also strengthen the AU’s position on the international stage. Notably, by bringing Africa’s voice into global discussions on issues such as climate change and economic development.
A model for regional cooperation
Morocco’s proposal to strengthen regional cooperation could serve as a model for other regions of the world. By promoting intra-African trade and supporting regional initiatives, Morocco could help create a more integrated and resilient economic environment. It could also encourage other countries to adopt similar approaches to solving common problems.
Strengthening the legitimacy of the AU
By focusing on peace and security, Morocco could help to strengthen the AU’s legitimacy as a key player in conflict resolution. A proactive approach to conflict prevention could also reduce the economic cost of crises, which amounts to about US$18 billion per year for Africa, according to the AU Peace and Security Institute.
Environmental Leadership
Morocco could also position itself as a leader in environmental sustainability. By pushing initiatives such as renewable energy, the country could inspire other African nations to adopt sustainable practices. It could also attract foreign investment in green projects, thereby contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Investment in human capital
Morocco’s focus on education and training could have a positive impact on long-term economic development. By investing in human capital, Morocco could help to create a skilled labor force capable of meeting the needs of the labor market. It could also reduce youth unemployment, which currently stands at 14 per cent in Africa, according to the International Labor Organization (ILO).
As Africa faces unprecedented challenges, the leadership Morocco offers could play a crucial role in building a better future for all.
