A prestigious international publication featured an article describing Morocco as one country in the Arab state that foreign investors believe has political and economic stability. This is one reason why tourism arrivals increased by seven percent in 2013. Investments also surged with automobile exports climbing by 70 percent and the Moroccan government selling the first-ever euro-dominated bond worth € 1billion in four years.
Thus, many economic analysts all over the world forecasted that Morocco will emerge as the best-performing economy of North Africa within the coming years. The country can develop into a model for export to other African countries primarily through the new hub of regional finance known as Casablanca Finance City. Investment outflows of Morocco to Africa also surged by over 40 percent during the last 10 years. These developments rarely happen in this continent.
Gradual Transformation
This positive change has come to Morocco gradually. The government has experienced reforms but left institutions in one piece. Fanatics and hooligans were banished. Mass protest actions still take place but these do not escalate into civil disturbances or armed clashes. There is no rule by the mob which is a common scenario in Arab-African regions. In other words, Morocco has evolved for the better.
Rabat, the capital city of Morocco is surprisingly clean and peaceful compared to Baghdad and Cairo. Africa may be dull but this North African nation is generally beautiful. Casablanca, the largest city, may look muddled like Beirut in Lebanon. Nevertheless, the city’s core resembles the capital of a European territory. Unlike majority of Arab-African countries outside the Gulf, Moroccans never experienced a destructive socialist or Arab nationalist chapter as well as revolution and sectarian conflicts in its history.
System of Government
Morocco is performing exceptionally compared to many Arab countries because of its system of governance. The parliamentary election held in November of 2011 was a further step towards stable democracy. The King (Mohamed VI) declared changes in the constitution and political reforms after successive street demonstrations. He also called on all sectors to help address problems such as unemployment, poverty and lack of literacy. The King’s counterpart, Prime Minister Abdul Ilah Bin Kiran, is also a purveyor of primary reforms. The positive collaboration between him and King Mohamed has produced genuine achievements in the political and economic areas of concern. Hopefully, these will last and lead to more progress.
Example for the Rest
Morocco has kept away from the mayhem brought about by the “Arab Spring” which has thrust many of its neighbors into turmoil. It may not be impervious to problems especially that of Islamic radicalism.
Even then, Morocco is an uncommon model for success. The country’s economy is growing and the government remains established. There are still problems to deal with such as the high rate of jobless youth as well as gap between rich and poor.
This nation, with its socio-economical and political strength, can in fact assume the position of unifying the fragmented region. The political model based on teamwork and non-confrontation was effective. Despite cases of corruption, approval ratings of the Moroccan government are outstanding. Political leaders especially the Prime Minister have been closer to citizens. There is an honest effort to weed out graft in institutions of government.
Conclusion
What happened in Morocco can be an example for the rest of the Arab world. It can even pave the way for a faster solution to the crisis in the Middle East. Overall, Morocco could help set the example for Islam nations in terms of peace and progress.
