Since its historic reintegration into the African Union in 2017, the Kingdom of Morocco has relentlessly pursued a strategy to deepen its strategic footprint within the continental body. Following extensive regional consultations across North Africa, the Kingdom secured multiple high-level positions across key AU organs and committees. This evolving dynamic underscores Morocco’s growing influence in African governance, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to institutional reforms, good governance, financial sustainability, economic integration, and tackling major development challenges.
Nine high-profile roles secured in key AU structures
Through strategic diplomacy and consensus-building efforts, Morocco now holds nine influential positions, leading all countries in its subregion in terms of elected responsibilities. Among these roles, the Kingdom will serve as Vice-President of the Ministerial Committee on African Candidates within the international system, a platform crucial for shaping continental leadership selection processes.
Additionally, Morocco will lead as Vice-President of the Contributions Committee, a pivotal body responsible for reviewing and approving the financial contributions of member states to the AU. In specialized technical committees that shape continental policy, the Kingdom will participate in the Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs, as well as the Committee on Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, and Mining Resources.
A strong presence in institutional and thematic governance
The Moroccan delegation will also hold the Vice-Presidency of the Permanent Representatives Committee dedicated to institutional reforms. It will chair the subcommittee on environmental issues and participate actively in the subcommittee on human rights, democracy, and governance. These roles reflect a comprehensive engagement strategy across governance, development, and rights-based agendas.
Morocco’s influence was further cemented with its election to the Board of Directors of the African Centre for Migration Studies and Research. This appointment enables Moroccan experts to contribute meaningfully to migration governance, aligning with the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The King’s African migration policy is anchored in humanitarian principles, solidarity, and shared responsibility—an approach now reflected within the AU’s institutional architecture.
From diplomatic isolation to leadership: a strategic comeback
Morocco’s return to the continental fold on January 30, 2017, during the AU Summit in Addis Ababa, marked the end of a 33-year absence that followed its withdrawal from the Organisation of African Unity in 1984. This bold move broke with decades of diplomatic disengagement and unlocked a wave of diplomatic achievements, particularly on territorial integrity.
The Kingdom transformed its approach to the Sahara dossier from a reactive stance to a proactive leadership role, effectively neutralizing opposing maneuvers within AU institutions. This pragmatic strategy has not only safeguarded Morocco’s core interests but has also fostered a climate of trust and cooperation across the continent.
Through bold diplomacy, Morocco has accelerated bilateral agreements with multiple African states, laying the groundwork for robust economic partnerships and continental cohesion. This renewed engagement has positioned the Kingdom as a key driver of Africa’s economic and institutional future.
