Mediterranean Dialogue, a network of think tanks committed to promoting freedom and human flourishing in the region, organized an event aimed at restoring this sea to its former role as a bridge between peoples.
On October 17th in UIR Rabat Business School , we, alongside Fundación Fortius‘ president Juan Ángel Soto Gómez, and Mediterranean Dialogue‘s coordinator, Tasnim Idriss, convened experts, policymakers, and civil society leaders for a comprehensive discussion on irregular migration in Morocco and its broader impact on the Mediterranean. This event, hosted in Moroccan Association of Solidarity and Development (AMSED), offered in-depth analysis of the drivers behind irregular migration, its effects on communities, and regional policy responses. The event consisted of two key panels, followed by the presentation of the country note on irregular migration in Morocco and a discussion of future initiatives.
Opening Remarks and 1st Panel Discussion
The day began with some welcoming remarks setting the stage for the discussions to follow. Shortly thereafter, the first panel, titled Understanding the Drivers and Impact of Irregular Migration in Morocco within the Mediterranean Context, commenced. This session examined the factors underlying irregular migration from Morocco and through its borders, alongside its impact on the broader Mediterranean region.
The panel, featuring key experts such as Mr. Reybet-Degat Francois from the UNHCR, Mr. Mohammed OUALI ALAMI from AMSED, Ms. Maftaha Benchlikha from IOM-UN Migration, Mr. Abderrahman Benyahya from Droits et Justice, and Mr. Abdeslam Sbatri from the Organisation des Jeunes Africains, addressed critical issues such as economic and political push factors, environmental drivers of migration, and the social and economic integration challenges faced by communities affected by migration.
The speakers provided an in-depth analysis of the political instability and economic hardship that push individuals to migrate irregularly. They also discussed the environmental factors exacerbating these migration flows, particularly in relation to Morocco’s vulnerable regions. The conversation underscored the profound impact on local labor markets, social structures, and political dynamics in both Morocco and neighboring Mediterranean countries.
2nd Panel Discussion
After a brief coffee break, we held a second panel, titled Policy Responses and Regional Cooperation to Address Irregular Migration in Morocco and the Mediterranean. The focus shifted to evaluating Morocco’s migration policies and exploring the importance of regional cooperation to effectively manage irregular migration.
Speakers for this session included Mr. Ivan Martin from the Policy Center for the New South, Ms. Aurélie Eragne from the National Human Rights Council, Dr. Norman Sempijja from Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, and Ms. Alicia Tintelin from Hijra Legal Clinic Morocco. They critically analyzed current migration policies, assessing gaps in implementation and the alignment of these policies with international frameworks. The role of international and regional organizations in enhancing cooperation was a key point of discussion, as was the necessity of fostering sustainable development to address the root causes of migration.
The panelists highlighted the importance of strengthening multilateral agreements and partnerships between Morocco and its Mediterranean neighbors. Best practices from other regions were explored, and innovative approaches to migration management were proposed, including strategies for improving integration efforts and minimizing the risks associated with irregular migration.
Presentation of Country Note on Irregular Migration in Morocco
The final session of the event featured the presentation of the Country Note on Irregular Migration in Morocco. This presentation offered an in-depth analysis of Morocco’s migration landscape within the broader Mediterranean framework. The research methodology, key findings, and policy recommendations were discussed, providing attendees with a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by irregular migration in the region.
Additionally, a White Paper on Informal Migration in the Mediterranean was presented, drawing on insights from 12 country-specific notes and offering a comprehensive overview of informal migration across the region. Attendees were also given a preview of the Mediterranean Dialogue’s upcoming strategic initiatives and events, including a discussion on the 2024 EU elections and their potential implications for migration policies.
Closing Remarks and Looking Ahead
The event concluded with closing remarks at 2:00 PM, followed by a lunch break at 2:15 PM. Throughout the day, participants engaged in meaningful exchanges and contributed to a deeper understanding of irregular migration in the Mediterranean. The event underscored the need for sustained dialogue and cooperation across the region to address the complexities of migration and its effects on both origin and destination countries.
