The Kingdom of Morocco has significantly bolstered its strategic presence within the African Union since its historic return in 2017. Following extensive regional consultations across North Africa, the country has secured multiple high-level positions across the organization’s various bodies and departments. This development underscores the growing role Morocco now plays in continental governance while reaffirming its commitment to the Union’s core priorities—including institutional reforms, good governance, financial sustainability, economic integration, and addressing major development challenges.

Nine strategic positions secured by Morocco

Morocco has secured nine prominent leadership roles, leading its subregion in the distribution of elective functions. Among these positions, the Kingdom will serve as Vice President of the ministerial committee responsible for African candidacies within the international system. Additionally, it will hold the Vice Presidency of the Contributions Committee, a critical body tasked with evaluating the financial contributions of member states.

In specialized technical committees—essential for shaping common policies—Morocco will participate in the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, as well as the Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, and Mining Committee. The Kingdom will also assume the Vice Presidency of the Permanent Representatives Committee dedicated to institutional reforms and will chair the Subcommittee on Environmental Issues. Its involvement extends further to the Subcommittee on Human Rights, Democracy, and Governance.

Contributions to migration governance and leadership recognition

The Kingdom’s influence is further highlighted by its election as a member of the Board of Directors of the African Center for Migration Studies and Research. This appointment enables Moroccan experts to actively contribute to the institution’s work. The appointment reflects the trust placed in King Mohammed VI’s leadership, whose vision on migration prioritizes humanitarian principles, solidarity, and shared responsibility.

Through these nine strategic roles, Morocco not only solidifies its dynamic influence but also demonstrates its ongoing commitment to strengthening the operational effectiveness of the African Union.

From withdrawal to reintegration: a diplomatic milestone

Morocco’s official reintegration into the continental family took place on January 30, 2017, during the Addis Ababa summit, ending a 33-year absence following its withdrawal from the Organization of African Unity in 1984. This return marked a decisive break from a policy of disengagement and paved the way for significant diplomatic achievements, particularly concerning territorial integrity.

The Moroccan diplomacy successfully shifted the dynamics on the Sahara issue from a reactive stance to a proactive approach, neutralizing counter-strategies within the Union’s own institutions. This pragmatic approach has provided Morocco with the direct presence needed to defend its fundamental interests.

The bold diplomatic initiatives of recent years have facilitated a smooth reintegration and accelerated the signing of strategic bilateral agreements with numerous African states. This momentum has opened new avenues for economic cooperation and continental cohesion, fostering stronger partnerships across the continent.