Virtual Magazine of Morocco on the Web
Morocco Week in Review 
February 22 , 2014

I've seen first-hand how foreign aid saves lives and wins hearts: PennLive letters.
By Letters to the Editor February 17, 2014

As a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer who worked in Morocco from 1990 to 1992, I have seen first hand the benefit of American assistance programs abroad. While many here at home may believe that money is better spent here in America, I can personally attest to the fact that with regard to the economy, to our global interests, and especially to US national security, American foreign assistance programs represent the best bang for the buck. 

At a cost of less than 1 percent of our federal budget, we reap enormous benefits by opening up new markets to American goods and services, while at the same time promoting stability, peace, and prosperity, which the world sorely needs for the development of democratic and capitalist societies.

In addition to these economic and strategic benefits, I also believe that there is a moral component to our foreign assistance to the world's poorest nations. Literally, millions of children are alive and thriving today due to life saving vaccine campaigns promoted and financed by American foreign assistance programs. 

In a rare demonstration of bipartisan unity, both Democrats and Republicans have time and time again supported efforts to eradicate disease around the world by coming together to provide anti-malarial netting, educational facilities, and new hospitals.

I often remember the toothy grins of Moroccans who held fingers up while, exclaiming, "America, Number 1!" as we connected refrigeration units to generators that would cool vaccines that would save their children. People do not forget when you save their children.

We should speak with pride about our long legacy of fighting extreme poverty, hunger, and disease and saving lives around the world.
http://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/foreign_aid_saves _lives_source.html
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Beyond the law: Protecting Morocco's women
By Leila Hanafi and Sarah Alaoui

At a conference on gender violence held in Rabat, Morocco in late January, UN Special Rapporteur Rashida Manjoo commended the country on its recently introduced draft bill protecting women against violence.

The Moroccan government paid attention to the issue following a 2006 United Nations study showed the extent to which violence prevented women from fulfilling their potential, restricted economic growth and undermined development.

Given the exigent consequences of violence against women on the economic welfare of communities, it became one of Morocco's pressing obligations to seriously address the issue. However, despite the advances Moroccan legislation made to improve women's rights, they remained hindered by several obstacles.

Many are aware of the grim story of 16-year-old Amina Filali's forced marriage to her alleged rapist and subsequent suicide that threw Morocco's Article 475 into international headlines. The article protects a rapist from prosecution if he married his victim. Following efforts by grassroots activists, and an Avaaz petition to repeal it, the article reemerged into the spotlight this month when it was repealed by the country's parliament.

Though the abrogation is a positive step forward, yet Article 475 is only the tip of the iceberg. Amina's fate, along with a number of complex issues afflicting Morocco including cracks in the justice system, gaping socioeconomic inequalities, and a need to comply with international standards, is one that can be prevented from haunting others.

A legal culture of impunity

The last few weeks in Morocco have seen heightening efforts by civil society and media campaigners to shed more light on gender violence in the country, a society in which both de facto and de jure shortcomings in women's rights exist. Coupled with a deeply entrenched culture of impunity - especially with issues concerning honour - the country's legal system suffers from bureaucratic weaknesses that stall investigation and implementation. Moreover, female victims of violence are often presumed to be accomplices and questions of consent overshadow the harm they've incurred.

Alleged rapists often receive the benefit of mediation with the blessings of legal aides, police and religious figures without facing prosecution. In order for women to feel protected against violence, a culture of zero tolerance for rape must be enforced. Female victims of violence in Morocco need to feel that they can trust the system to protect their rights and bring them justice without having - oftentimes-  to resort to extreme "solutions". Their rehabilitation and safety must be emphasised as much as their honour has been.

Another notable weakness of the ability of the Moroccan legal system to protect victims is rooted in court delays, a feature typical of the country's bureaucracy. There are multiple causes of delay including prolonged hearings; insufficient human and financial resources in courtrooms; mismanagement and disorganisation of court resources and caseload; inefficient legal procedures and court processes; and party delays.

Numerous legislative and administrative initiatives have been undertaken over the years to address these issues. And while many have been successful in their specific aims, the issue continues to be flagrant. An efficient and effective court system is crucial to the administration of justice to protect the rights of female victims of violence.

Disparities in resource access

There are several women's rights groups and civil society actors in Morocco who work freely to promote gender equality and equal access to justice in the country. While their efforts have gained momentum in recent years, they are often challenged by a conservative culture  - especially in underprivileged areas such as Amina's village in the outskirts of Larache. In these places, there is little to no information on civil society groups and the services they provide.

Furthermore, few have conducted research on the human, material and financial resources of the civil society organisations working with rural women. As Moroccan Minister of Solidarity, Women, Family and Social Development Bassima Hakkaoui has repeatedly said, more resources and support must be allocated to women's shelters. This falls under the need for greater coordination between the government and local actors to accurately target and fulfil the needs of these women.

Many rural areas lack basic infrastructure such as roads, which prevent civil society organisations usually based in major urban centers such as Rabat or Casablanca, to exert the same levels of influence in rural areas as they can in urban areas. Something as simple as a road can make the difference between whether a wronged woman in a village can obtain access to justice or not.

Many women, including Amina, who had to make trips from Larache to Tangier to attend court hearings, do not have physical access to legal aid or the resources of non-profit organisations. Many more are unaware or misinformed about their legal rights, and many lawyers refuse to take on pro-bono cases or lower their service rates for victims in rural areas. All women who have been subject to violence must have access to a legal counsel - justice should not have a price tag.

Compliance with international standards

It is not entirely true to say that progress has not been made on improving women's rights in Morocco. Positive steps have been taken to amend the family law (the Moudawana). In urban areas these amendments have created a system for effectively dealing with the increased numbers of women filing domestic violence complaints within the court system. Article 336 of the Code of Criminal Procedure which previously only allowed women to take civil action against their husbands with prior authorisation from the court was also changed, now granting women equal access to the legal system.

In 2003, ammendements were made to the penal code to allow for heavier penalties on a spouse who inflicts harm upon the other spouse. Moreover, health care workers are now authorised to waive professional confidentiality agreements in cases of gender-based violence and to report such incidents to the appropriate authorities.

Morocco has also taken unprecedented steps in the country's history to help eradicate discrimination against women and to improve gender equality by ratifying international instruments of human rights. The country is party to several international rights agreements including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

These are all encouraging steps forward in Morocco's path to protecting women against violence and to preserving their rights. However, in order for their implementation to be effective, they need to be enforced in tandem with national legislation. By ratifying these international instruments, Morocco has committed to preventing discrimination against women and to assuring gender parity with regards to human rights. However, despite these international commitments, shortcomings in the status of women's legal rights in Morocco still prevail.

A common discrepancy between implementation and international commitments, for example, is with the minimum age for marriage and Article 2 of the CEDAW which urges state parties to refrain from engaging in any act or practice of discrimination against women and to ensure that public authorities and institutions conform to this obligation.

Though Moroccan law sets the minimum age for marriage at 18 for both males and females, judges often waive this requirement at their own discretion, allowing female minors to get married. The laws are bent because culturally speaking, girls tend to marry far older men and are often married when they are under 18. This does not absolve Morocco of its responsibility to the stipulations of CEDAW and the need to comply with international standards.

Today, the advances Morocco has achieved since the millennium have contributed largely to improving many human development indicators, especially for women. The journey to protect Morocco's women is on the right track, but it is far from over. It remains one of the many examples of how societies in the Middle East and North Africa are increasingly grappling with balancing tradition and the human imperative of making society  more just for women.

Leila Hanafi is a Moroccan-American international lawyer, and policy expert from Georgetown University, George Washington University, and American University, Washington DC, USA. Ms. Hanafi is the founder and chief lawyer at the international law firm and think-thank ARPA, the Alliance for Rule of Law Promotion & Alternative Dispute Resolution, in Washington DC, USA.

Sarah Alaoui is an independent writer currently based in Washington D.C. Her work focuses primarily on North Africa.
http://www.english.globalarabnetwork.com/2014022013333/Culture/beyond-the-law-protecting-morocco-s-women.html
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Morocco Is Making The Most Of Its Status As A 'Secure' Tourist Destination.
By Kathleen Caulderwood February 19 2014

As tourism declines in Egypt, Morocco has been making the most of its status as a safer destination in Muslim North Africa.

On Tuesday, a Sinai-based extremist group warned all tourists to leave Egypt within days, or risk attacks. The terror group, called Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis, is the same organization that claimed responsibility for the explosion of a South Korean tour bus near the Egyptian city of Taba on Sunday that killed four and injured 17. “The tourism sector remains the most affected by the political scene in Egypt,” Omneia Helmy, director of research at the Egyptian Center of Economic Studies, told International Business Times. 

Even before the recent attacks, tourist visits to Egypt dropped 31 percent to just 678,000 in 2013, according to CAPMAS, the state statistical agency. Meanwhile, more than 10.5 million tourists visited Morocco last year – up 7 percent since 2012, according to AFP.

Last week, Lahcen Haddad, Morocco’s tourism minister,  told Bloomberg that airlines and tour companies see the country as “a secure destination.”  He noted that he’s been speaking with British Airways, Lufthansa, Ryanair, EasyJet, Transavia and Air Berlin about organizing routes. Plus, he said direct flights to and from China should become a reality in 2015.  

Despite the increased numbers, tourists are spending less in Morocco, thanks to a slow economy in Europe. In fact, tourism receipts fell 0.5 percent last year. But the country is still in a much better state than its neighbors and seem to be taking advantage of the situation.

“In a region that has recently come to be associated with social upheaval and anemic growth, Morocco often stands out as an exception,” reads a World Bank report issued Jan. 24. The bank's data shows that tourism now accounts for 11 percent of the country’s GDP and officials are also pursuing emerging sectors such as eco-tourism.  
http://www.ibtimes.com/morocco-making-most-its-status-secure-tourist-destination-1556452
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The National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco is tracing the journey of the great scholars of the medieval Muslim world through a collection of works never before exhibited.

The national library is filled with priceless treasures, as it is proving once again. On the occasion of its 10th anniversary, the library is presenting a series of unpublished documents recounting the journey of nine great scholars and globetrotters of Islam. The exhibition, "Geographers and Travelers of the Muslim Maghreb World from the 12th Century to the 17 Century," brings together books, manuscripts, prints and lithographs describing the journeys of famous explorers such as Abu Salem al-Ayyaichi, Hassan al-Wazzan (the famous Leo Africanus), Ibn Jubayr and Ibn Battuta.

"All of these books are rare. They are not unique, but there are only a few copies around the world," said Naima Keddane, head of the monograph department and curator of the library’s collections. These authentic historical gems were inherited from the previous library, the General Library of Archives, which was created in 1924. It is difficult to learn more about how these books were passed on. How they landed on the shelves of the library remains a mystery.

"What really matters now, since they are in our hands, is showing their value to the public and the possibility that researchers can consult them," Keddane said.

Valuable testimony

Among the masterpieces of this exhibition is a manuscript entitled al-Rihlah al-Maghribiyyah , written in 1289. It recounts the pilgrimage of al-Abdari, a traveler born in the Haha tribe in the Essaouira region, to Mecca. The exhibition also contains an 1898 lithograph of the work of Hajji Abu Salim al-Ayyashi, a theologian [and travel writer] from the Middle Atlas region [who lived from 1628-1679]. "In both cases, it consists of a rihla hijagiya , a travelogue mainly focused on spirituality and religion," said Keddane.

"The rihla is a literary genre divided into several categories. For instance, the work of Ibn Battuta is much more focused on geographical and ethnological observations. His pilgrimage was an opportunity to go further and meet different cultures and customs.”

Another gem concerns the renowned Ibn Khaldun, namely,  al-Rihla, Gharbân wa Sharqan  (The West and East Trip), a book written in the 20th century by Mohamed Ibn Taouit Ettanji, who describes and discusses the wanderings of the scholar [who lived from 1332-1406].

"This is something new. Ibn Khaldun was better known as a historian or precursor in sociology than as an explorer," said Keddane.

Finally, the library is exhibiting a particularly valuable Cosmographia of Africa  manuscript by Hassan al-Wazzan (Leo Africanus), dating to 1556. It remains “the only source of information on the life, manners and customs of Africa of the 16th century.”

A long-term undertaking

The library includes many rich publications that required hard work. Indeed, the rarity of a book can only be proved after long research and if it meets several criteria. For example, one should check whether the document exists in other libraries around the world, estimate the intellectual value of the document, evaluate its circulation and be certain of its age.

“These conditions vary by country. For example, printed works from the 19th century are not necessarily considered rare in Europe since the printing press appeared in the 17th century, while the opposite is true in Morocco, where printing presses appeared in 1865,” explained Keddane. ... The library also has unique documents concerning the history of Algeria and Tunisia.

The exhibition continues until Feb. 15 at the National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco, in Rabat.
Read more: http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/culture/2014/02/morocco-library-exhibition-rare-literary-works.html#ixzz2tfZVrPZ3
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Eyes on Morocco’s Phosphate Industry
Tuesday February 18, 2014, 9:58am PST

ABC Rural reported that phosphate industry players should keep their eyes on Morocco as it appears that the country’s Government will make a move to increase its stake in global phosphate production, which could in turn threaten Australia’s supply.

According to the publication: New mining and processing infrastructure is being constructed in the north African kingdom as the country aims towards producing 40 per cent of the world’s phosphate supply by 2020.

Click here to view the full report.
http://potashinvestingnews.com/9786-eyes-on-moroccos-phosphate-industry.html
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North Africa: UMA Anniversary - HM the King Renews Morocco's Adherence to Maghreb Union Spirit and Principles
17 February 2014 Rabat

HM King Mohammed VI reiterated Morocco's adherence to the spirit and principles of the Arab Maghreb Union and to support all initiatives meant to secure its sustainability and dynamism as an unavoidable unifying framework.

In congratulations messages to heads of state of the four other Maghreban countries (Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, and Tunisia) on the 25th anniversary of the Arab Maghreb Union establishment, HM the King says the UMA is needed to "take up common challenges facing the Maghreban peoples".

Underlining the need to adhere to "the logic of solid economic and political groupings that reject puppet entities and only recognize unity foundations and history-engraved national constant values", the sovereign notes that "the advent of this memorable anniversary, source of pride at its deep unification meanings, rises questions as to efforts made to preserve and accomplish this major historic gain, in accordance with objectives of the Marrakesh treaty, as a solid and solidarity union that meets the aspirations of its peoples to further integration".

HM the King prays the Almighty to inspire wisdom and insightfulness to the Maghreban leaders to consolidate the bases of the Maghreban edification and make of it a steer for joint development and progress of the five member-countries and a true guarantee of the unity, security and serenity of its brother people.
http://allafrica.com/stories/201402180630.html
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Spicy lamb kabobs: Moroccan fast food.
By Linda Gassenheimer February 18, 2014

These lamb kabobs, flavored with Moroccan spices, were inspired by an interview I had with Kitty Morse, an author and cooking teacher who grew up in Casablanca.“Kabobs are one of Morocco’s most popular fast foods,” Morse told me. Whether in small-town souks or in the heart of Marrakesh, she said, the smoky aroma of grilled meat drifts across the squares as kabobs grill on open fires.

Morse makes a fragrant marinade for her kabobs; after they’re cooked, she sprinkles them with a pinch of salt and cumin for added zing. I use a dry rub instead to shorten the preparation time in this recipe, adapted from her book, “Cooking at the Kasbah.”

These kabobs can be grilled or cooked under the broiler. They’re served in the pockets of warm pita bread and topped with a tomato salsa that’s made from fresh mint – a cooling contrast with the spicy kabobs.The best cut of lamb for kabobs comes from the leg. It’s not usually displayed in the meat case, so ask the butcher to cut some for you. (To save time, place your order first and do your shopping while it’s being filled.)The recipe calls for sweet Hungarian paprika. If you can’t find it, substitute another variety. In either case, remember that paprika loses flavor quickly; buy a new jar if yours is more than 3 months old.

Helpful Hints
• Beef or chicken can be substituted for the lamb.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first.
• Clean mushrooms by wiping them with a damp paper towel; this keeps them from absorbing too much water.
• Leave a little space between each item on the skewer so the meat will cook evenly.

Countdown
• Preheat grill or broiler.
• Prepare the lamb.
• Chop onion and garlic together in a food processor.
• While lamb marinates, make the salsa.
• Cook the kabobs.

Shopping List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need.To buy: 3/4 pound lamb cubes, 1 jar sweet Hungarian paprika, 1 jar ground cumin, 8 button mushrooms, 2 medium tomatoes, 1 small bunch scallions, 1 small bunch mint, 1 package whole-wheat pita bread and skewers.Staples: onion, garlic, hot pepper sauce, sugar, salt and black peppercorns.
Miami Herald

Marrakesh Kabobs

3/4 pound lamb cut into 1- to 1 1/2-inch cubes
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tablespoon paprika (preferably sweet Hungarian)
2 teaspoons ground cumin, divided
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Several drops hot pepper sauce
12 button mushrooms, (about 1 inch in diameter)
1/2 teaspoon salt

4 skewers
4 whole-wheat pita breads

PREHEAT grill or broiler. Remove fat from lamb cubes. Mix onion, garlic, paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, black pepper and hot pepper sauce in a medium bowl. Add lamb and toss to coat well. Set aside while you make the salsa. Thread skewers alternately with lamb and mushrooms. Place directly on grill grates or line a baking tray with foil and place under broiler. Cook 5 minutes, turn and cook 5 minutes more. Remove from the heat.

MIX remaining 1 teaspoon cumin and 1/2 teaspoon salt together and sprinkle it over the kabobs. Place the pita bread on the grill grates or under the broiler to warm for 1 minute. Cut pita bread in half and carefully open the pockets. Slide lamb and mushrooms into the pockets and top with Moroccan salsa.

Yield: 2 servings.

Per serving: 614 calories (19 percent from fat), 13.2 g fat (3.9 g saturated, 4.4 g monounsaturated), 111 mg cholesterol, 50.7 g protein, 79.1 g carbohydrates, 11.8 g fiber, 811 mg sodium.

Moroccan Salsa

2 medium tomatoes, cut into small cubes
2 scallions, sliced
Leaves from 3 mint sprigs; if large tear into small pieces: 1/4 cup
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

PLACE tomatoes, scallions and mint leaves in a small bowl. Add sugar and salt pepper to taste. Toss well.

Per serving: 46 calories (8 percent from fat), 0.4 g fat (0.1 g saturated, 0.1 g monounsaturated), no cholesterol, 1.9 g protein, 10.4 g carbohydrates, 2.6 g fiber, 12 mg sodium.

Read more here:http://www.newsobserver.com/2014/02/18/3632944/lamb-kabobs-moroccan-fast-food.html#storylink=cpy
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Cocktail of the month: Salted Caramel Moroccan Coffee
Tuesday, February 18, 2014

From Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill in Tempe comes the Salted Caramel Moroccan Coffee. A limited-time feature of the restaurant’s winter seasonal menu, it runs $8. Here’s how to mix one at home:

Ingredients:
sugar for the rim of the glass
pinch of nutmeg
pinch of cinnamon
1/4 oz. Bacardi 151 Rum
1/4 oz. Kahlua Coffee Liqueur
1/2 oz. Irish cream
1/2 oz. DeKuyper Buttershots Butterscotch Schnapps Liqueur
6 ozs. brewed black coffee
dollop of whipped cream
drizzle of caramel sauce
Pinch of kosher salt

Procedure:

1. Rim a cocktail mug with sugar and pour in rum.
2. Holding the mug at a tilt, light the rum with a kitchen torch or lighter, and slowly turn the glass so the flame caramelizes the sugared rim. While the flame burns/while the sugar is sticky, sprinkle nutmeg and cinnamon on the sugared rim. Let the flame fizzle out on its own.
3. Add remaining ingredients to the drink, being sure to add coffee last.
4. Top with whipped cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, and sprinkle kosher salt on top.

Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill is at Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway. For information, call (480) 968-2920 or visit ThirstyLionPub.com/tempe.
http://world.einnews.com/article/190742461/WY2t_cyoSesTcW3a?n=1&code=F0A6UI8SDeLVJB2O
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Three years on, Frustration grips Morocco’s February 20 movement
Arab Spring turmoil mutes Morocco’s protest movement which has failed to bring in sweeping reforms.
By Simon MARTELLI, Hicham RAFIH - RABAT 2014-02-19

When Arab Spring protests erupted in early 2011, Morocco's February 20 pro-reform movement mobilised mass demonstrations, but three years on its goals remain frustrated and regional turmoil has dampened demand for change. The movement that once brought tens of thousands onto the streets of main cities now musters just a few dozen activists to call for democratic reforms or denounce the high cost of living.

"It does seem that as a movement, the February 20 movement hasn't gone anywhere, its demonstrations have ended, it hasn't drafted the same level of support ... that it initially attracted in early 2011," said analyst Issandr Amrani of the International Crisis Group (ICG).

Since the protest group was born, many in Morocco have watched warily as uprisings that swept away decades-old dictatorships in other North African countries, notably Libya, Tunisia and Egypt, gave way to violence and political upheaval.

"That moment in early 2011 of euphoria across the Arab world is gone, and for now it appears that however unsatisfied they may be with the results a lot of Moroccans would rather not rock the boat," said Amrani.

One young activist not afraid to do so is rapper Lhaqed, an outspoken voice of the February 20 movement who still rails against the system, despite being jailed for a year in 2012 for defaming the police in his songs. "The authorities are determined to prevent politically engaged artists from expressing themselves," the rapper, whose real name is Mouad Belghouat, told AFP last week, after the launch of his new album in Casablanca was blocked by the police.

"The only change after February 20 is that the citizens today talk openly about other things, they protest in the slums, whole neighbourhoods take to the streets." "But as for those who rule the country, there's been no change at all in my view. We have no independent judiciary, no free press, corruption remains rife and the country's money is stolen," he added.

- 'Only hope' -

Hamza Mahfoud, a young journalist who was among the original coordinators of the movement, also believes that, despite its failure to bring in sweeping reforms, changes have taken place within Moroccan society. "Even if it's not enough, the movement prompted the regime to introduce a new constitution," he said.

In response to the mass protests in 2011, the king introduced a new constitution designed to curb his near-absolute powers and held snap polls in November that year that saw the moderate Islamist Party of Justice and Development elected for the first time.

"More importantly ... (the experience) taught the people to take to the streets and to speak freely," Mahfoud added. He pointed to the public response to the royal pardon granted to a Spanish paedophile last summer, an erroneous decision that was hastily revoked after tens of thousands took to the streets.

Veteran human rights activist Khadija Ryadi said the election of a political party that had never been in power before, and had campaigned to battle corruption, brought real hope among Moroccans that their demands would be met. It also undermined the February 20 movement's support, together with the suppression of protests and the arrest and imprisonment of scores of activists. "That doesn't mean the movement's role is over. Personally I consider it the only hope in the absence of a political force capable of articulating the demands and needs of the people," she said.

Islamist Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane has often quipped that his government's reform programme is partly responsible for the fact that thousands no longer march in the streets calling for change.

But the ICG's Amrani argues that, on the contrary, Benkirane appears a lot more tame than when he came to power, notably in what he has achieved on key issues like corruption and judicial reform. "There is a danger in the disappointment that many Moroccans feel with the quality of their government," he warned. "The system is still one where the palace matters a lot, where things can get made or unmade, and the government has not really been given a free hand."
http://www.middle-east-online.com/english/?id=64365

and http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/140219/arab-spring-turmoil-mutes-morocco-protest-movement
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I was pleasantly surprised recently on the first day of my trip to Morocco as a member of a delegation of Black journalists representing the National Newspaper Publishers Association – NNPA, The Black Press of America.

Our first dinner host was Dr. Ahmed Abadi, Secretary General of the Moroccan Theological Council. He made the case, as you might expect, for the tradition of religious tolerance in his North African, largely Islamic country.

Dr. Abadi went to pains to point out how tolerant his society is of Jews, many of whom were expelled along with the Muslims, from Spain and Portugal during the Inquisition of 1492. Moroccan Jews constitute an ancient community. Before the founding of Israel in 1948, there were about 250,000 to 350,000 Jews in the country, which gave Morocco the largest Jewish community in the Muslim world, but fewer than 2,500 or so remain today.

Dr. Abadi explained that Moroccans have an enlightened view concerning their efforts to extend full equality to women, and their education system emphasizes teaching girls and women in practically all areas of service. During our visit we met a number of female government ministers, members of parliament and several of the women we met had proudly earned doctorate degrees in various fields of study…….

Read more here: http://washingtoninformer.com/news/2014/feb/19/muhammad-morocco-loves-farrakhan-man-all-seasons/
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A Closer Look at Moroccan Economic Growth Potential.
by Joel Bowman / on September 6, 2012

Reckoning from Marrakech, Morocco…

“BEHIND THE MOSQUE”

The message appeared on a dusty old Dell laptop, proudly displayed by the store clerk around the corner from our riad here in the Medina. We’d asked some directions…in broken, barely-French…and the young man, no more than 16 years of age, quickly set about punching the information into Google Translate. His smile, upon reaching an answer, stretched from ear to ear.

We would find the Wi-Fi cafe after all…

The fact that this young man was tending (probably his father’s or uncle’s) store at all would likely run him afoul of American child-labor laws. He certainly didn’t charge us for providing his services, nor log his work in a journal, though we did offer a few dirhams for his help (which he politely waved away.)

Moreover, we doubt his operation, which, as far as we could make out, dealt largely with repairing old computer monitors and keyboards, reports earnings to the “appropriate authorities.”

What, then, would they make of this young lad? Is he “marginally attached”… “underemployed…” … “discouraged”…or does he wedge into some other creative, politicospeak definition?

To be sure, there’s not much to envy in the Moroccan economy. The country ranked a dismal 130th in the UN’s 2011 Human Development Index. Almost 40% of the population cannot read or write and the telltale signs of extreme poverty are ubiquitous.

Donkeys still stand in for taxis in many parts and, under the sweltering midday sun, even the spice sifters in the main square slip seated to supine for a few hours of precious shuteye. Little, in fact, is accomplished during daylight. The bustling souks only come alive in the cool of the evenings.

Our point is not that the United States government should start emulating the Moroccan government…though with the comparative resource riches that remain under governmental lock and key in the US, it might not be entirely a bad thing…

Since 1993, the Moroccan economy, Africa’s fifth largest, has undergone a series of privatizations of industries previously under the government’s control. These include airlines, telecommunications, a slew of large industrial projects and the increasingly important tourism sector.

In addition, the government plans to sell off agricultural lands currently managed by state farms, a move that will impact roughly 40-45% of the working Moroccan population. Growth rates, (as far as official figures can be trusted…on either side of the Atlantic) are today about two and a half times those in the US. And, in recent years, both the budget deficit and overall debt have fallen as a percentage of GDP.

There are other important indicators too. As our young friend happily showcased, the country now has the fastest Internet usage growth on the continent. With increased access to information comes a kind of “social liberalization.”

It is not uncommon, for example, to see young women walking arm in arm down the streets, one in traditional garb, the other in “western-style” clothing…a prospect that would have been unthinkable not so long ago.

That said, there are many challenges still ahead. Morocco is the world’s biggest exporter and third largest producer of phosphorus, a key component in fertilizer. Its production plays an inordinately large part in the national economy and, therefore, price fluctuations of the mineral in the international market strongly influence the country’s economic vitality.

Along with most other commodities, phosphorus took a nosedive toward the end of 2008, collapsing from over US$430 per metric ton at its peak to just $90 per ton by mid-2009. It has since recovered to $180 a ton, but that’s still a long way from the record prices of four years ago.

So as you might imagine, Morocco’s major market indexes have tracked a similar course. The MASI (Moroccan All Shares Index) is down almost 33% from its 2008 all-time high…and is very close to hitting a 6- year low.

We have no idea if this represents an interesting value play or merely an offbeat idea…or somewhere between the two. Therefore, to borrow a phrase from our senior editor, Eric Fry, we’ll simply conclude that, although Morocco might not yet be a “buy,” it is probably less of a “sell.”

Hoping to gain greater conviction about the timeliness of investing in phosphate (or the Moroccan stock market), we asked Chris Mayer, editor of Mayer’s Special Situations and the only man we know who can provide on-the-spot insight on everything from Burmese rail travel to Moroccan phosphate, for his opinion on the matter.

“I just visited a phosphate miner last week in Toronto,” he replied in a manner suggesting he had been expecting just this question. “Morocco is who everyone in the business pays attention to because they have 70% of the world’s phosphate reserves. And they are the world’s largest producer.

“They essentially set the price. The market for phosphate should remain tight as long as the Moroccans don’t flood the market. So far, every indication is that they want to make a good return on their assets.

“If that’s true,” continued Chris, “then we could have tight phosphate markets for the next several years, especially in North America. It’s the same old story, the best mines are getting old and need to be replaced. There is not much new supply, but demand grows apace.

“The price for the rock is still $180-200 per tonne, a healthy price and it tends to follow the FAO food price index. With grain prices likely to stay high given the damage drought did to grain inventories, the picture looks pretty good for phosphate.”

Joel Bowman for The Daily Reckoning Australia
http://world.einnews.com/article/191243634/_jyFhmRYDCyK4EVa?n=1&code=F0A6UI8SDeLVJB2O
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Morocco: Extremist Trend Troubles Morocco Lawmakers.
By Siham Ali, 18 February 2014 Rabat

Moroccan MPs are calling for greater action to stem the spread of extremist ideology.

Ulema are in the best position to counter fanaticism, Islamic Affairs Minister Ahmed Toufiq said last week in response to questions from the Chamber of Councillors.

The issue of what the government was doing to fight extremism and terrorism arose when Authenticity and Modernity Party MP Ahmed Touizi on February 11th warned that some imams were exploiting mosques to put out dangerous messages.

He also pointed to intolerant videos on YouTube and opinions circulating on Facebook. "It's astonishing to see what's going around on the internet, so much so that you wonder if you're really in Morocco, a country known for its tolerance," Touizi said.

He reminded the minister about the government's commitment to preserving an Islamic faith of openness and the middle ground. Religious figures, the legislator argued, should ensure proper guidance, both within and outside Morocco.

But according to Minister Taoufiq, the views being expressed within mosques are under control. "Lapses are very rare within the mosques," he said. "Our imams and preachers stick to the guidelines, despite the poison spreading both internationally and regionally," he pointed out. The minister likened religious views to a marketable commodity that has both a producer and a consumer: "We must not tolerate shoddy goods in our mosques. We want to ensure that our religious values are upheld."

Toufiq said the fight against fundamentalist views would require "consumers" to be made more aware, through the institution of the ulema.

It is important to prevent gaps in the provision of religious guidance, in order to deprive extremists of any opportunity, the minister told MPs. "The public must not be turning to people who cannot express religious views in a properly thought-out and well-researched manner. The law must be applied to all expressions of views, which do not satisfy the values of Islam and the middle ground. Some have been exploiting freedom of expression within mosques," the minister said.

But if ulema are the best solution, there is still a problem to overcome, sociologist Nora Sebari said. "What the ulema lack is the ability to speak in a way that's seen as relevant to people's daily lives," she told Magharebia. "They need to work on their communication skills so that they can achieve a breakthrough into society, and young people in particular," she said.

Salima Chahdi, 23, an accountant, agreed, noting that that Morocco's imams do not capture the attention of young people. "The way they put their information across is not attractive," she said. "There must surely be young preachers and ulema around, but they're not given the opportunity to speak on the television channels and radio stations, even though there is clearly a real need for this among society," she said. And the fact that the young, moderate preachers do not have a way to reach a wide audience "gives the extremists an opportunity to exert a negative influence", Chahdi added. http://allafrica.com/stories/201402181527.html?viewall=1
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Morocco was not immune to the popular movement witnessed in the Arab region following the outbreak of the Tunisian revolution in December 2010. At this time three years ago, the February 20 Movement was leading mass demonstrations in various cities in Morocco. During these demonstrations, they raised slogans that varied between constitutional, political, social and economic priorities. 

In an attempt to protect his throne from the winds of what has become known as the "Arab Spring," King Mohammed VI pre-empted any attempt at a revolution. Thus, he gave a now famous speech on March 9, 2011, a month after the start of the popular movement, in which he put in place an agenda for reform, including the adoption of constitutional amendments. 

Yet, three years after the start of the popular movement, it seems that the idea of "gradual reform" has fallen, and perhaps this is why the February 20 movement has intensified its work to restore its spirit. 

The issue of reform was not something new to Moroccan society, and it was not the product of the popular movement in February 2011. The wave of change was present between late 2009 and early 2010, which constituted a period of resentment at the popular level. This was not because of rampant corruption and the supremacy of the "Makhzen" (the ruling elite) alone, but also because 2009 was the year of the 10-year evaluation of the king coming to power. This evaluation was shocking, given the hopes that were pinned on the political will of the new king in the process of building democracy. 

Thus, the discussions that followed the Feb. 20 protests in 2011, and the previous changes in other Arab countries, had strongly pushed the issue of reform to the forefront and contributed to raising the ceiling of demands and accelerating the pace of the popular movement. 

The "famous" speech

The constitutional amendments of 2011, which were put to a popular referendum, would not have been done at the same speed or with the same formula had it not been for regional conditions and the popular movement that began with the emergence of the February 20 movement. 

Mohammed VI was able to absorb the anger of the street through the "proactive reform model," in which he announced significant reforms and gave people hope through the use of resonating words such as change, democracy, reform, institutions and accountability. The approved constitutional amendments led to early legislative elections on Nov. 25, 2011. These elections resulted in a big win for the Islamic Justice and Development Party, which presided over a new coalition government. 

Despite the above, the regime later demonstrated that it would not stop its traditional authoritarian practices in terms of dealing with both the press and the demonstrations, which continued strongly in almost all major cities of Morocco. The peak of these demonstrations occurred on the "National Day of Protest" in April 2011, when more than 800,000 Moroccans demonstrated in 106 cities and villages. This was in addition to demonstrations in 10 European and US cities, according to statistics from the National Council to Support the February 20 movement. 

Hovering

Do the new constitutional reforms in Morocco represent a real change, or are they just "hovering" in the same place?

The former director of the Middle East Program at the Carnegie Institute, British researcher Marina Ottaway, confirms that the constitution that was drafted "falls into the category of constitutions granted to the nation by the king, rather than those crafted by a representative organization embodying popular sovereignty." This is because it was drafted by a commission of experts appointed by the king, rather than an elected constituent assembly or another representative body. 

Ottaway, however, stressed that the constitution "undoubtedly broadens the power of parliament, allowing it to pass laws on most issues; it takes steps toward protecting the independence of the judiciary; and it increases the role of a number of independent commissions."

Yet she also noted, "What it fails to do clearly and unequivocally is reduce the power of the king." On the contrary, "the new constitution reserves for the king three areas as his exclusive domain: religion, security issues and strategic major policy choices. In addition, the king will remain the supreme arbiter among political forces. Under those rubrics, the king could very well control all important decisions, if he so chooses."

The royal palace regains its iron fist

On July 1, 2011, a referendum was held on the new Moroccan constitution, amid calls by the February 20 movement for a boycott, claiming that it enhances the absolute rule [of the king] and would not eliminate corruption. Nevertheless, the constitution passed with 98% of the vote. 

Moroccan researcher Said Salmi said that the referendum "was disappointing. The state did not stand on the sidelines, and the king called on the people to vote 'yes.' He also gave orders to imams of mosques to dedicate a sermon to calling on the people to vote in favor of the constitution. Chapters of the constitution were changed the night before the referendum, and the king committed violations multiple times." 

Shortly after the referendum, on Nov. 25, 2011, legislative elections were held in Morocco. The Justice and Development Party, which gives priority to Islamic reference in its work, won a large number of seats, enabling it to lead the government — headed by Abdelilah Benkirane — and receive 12 ministerial portfolios. 

However, according to Salmi, the Benkirane government "quickly succumbed to corrupt lobbies and, instead of confrontation, preferred to take the easier route, adopting a demagogic populist rhetoric." He noted, "Under these circumstances, the royal palace regained its iron fist over all institutions."

Given that the Benkirane government had adopted a policy of "a deaf ear toward suggestions, solutions and alternatives," the Istiqlal Party withdrew from the government and moved to the ranks of the opposition. They considered the government to be "the worst in the history of modern Morocco," especially given that Morocco dropped three places in the rankings released by Transparency International in the field of fighting bribery. 

"Pleasure marriage" between "Islamists" and "liberals"

The Benkirane government was appointed to a second term in 2013, following an alliance that observers described as a "pleasure marriage" between the Islamic Justice and Development Party and the National Rally of Independents, which is close to the authorities. During the Benkirane government's monthly accountability meeting on Jan. 4, there was a storm of accusations and counteraccusations between the government and opposition parties. Benkirane accused members of the Istiqlal Party, which had resigned from the government, of smuggling large sums of money out of Morocco. 

In a precedent, the secretary-general of the Istiqlal Party, Hamid Chabat, announced that his party had decided to file a lawsuit against the head of the government, with the aim of [making the judiciary] reconsider the [Justice and Development] Party and its leaders. Chabat stressed that the goal of the lawsuit was to push Benkirane to act as a "real" head of state in the future. 

Chabat stressed that the leaderships of the Istiqlal and Socialist Union parties are thinking about filing a lawsuit against anyone who mixes politics with Islamic preaching. He called on the Justice and Development Party to abandon its links to the Unity and Reform movement, and said that if it does not do this the state must dissolve the party, given its links to one of the Muslim Brotherhood's international associations.

Heavy criticism … and Benkirane acknowledges inability

In late 2013, King Mohammed VI strongly criticized the Benkirane government's management, holding it responsible for the decline in the reform of the education sector. The leader of the opposition Socialist Union of Popular Forces Party, Driss Lachgar, criticized the performance of the Moroccan government nearly two years after its formation, calling on it to open an investigation into the money smuggling and corruption cases. 

On Jan. 12, activists from the Amazigh Youda movement organized the largest march in the movement's history, condemning the policy of procrastination that the state has been using in dealing with Amazigh demands. The movement also called for trying those involved in cases of corruption, abuse of power and looting of public money, as well as for enabling all citizens to have access to social services and improving these services. Moreover, activists said that [the government] should ensure a decent life for citizens by reducing the cost of living and increasing the minimum wage. 

This is only the tip of the iceberg of the movements, which pushed Benkirane to acknowledge — albeit belatedly — the [government's] inability to address rampant bribery and corruption, blaming unnamed parties "that defend some corrupt people affiliated with them."

The dynamism of Feb. 20

In the midst of these developments and transformations, the February 20 movement had lost its vitality and entered into a phase of "intensive care," waiting for the announcement of its final death, as some researchers noted. But that did not prevent observers from stressing that the reform process initiated by Morocco was thanks to this bold protest movement.

Hamza Mahfouz, a February 20 activist, told As-Safir that what Morocco witnessed was a "popular uprising" and it will continue as long as the demands raised by the movement have not been achieved. He added the movement will continue to protest "despite the violent attacks it has been subjected to from official authorities, and despite the fall of 11 martyrs and the arrest of 58 members."

"Some Moroccans have hesitated in supporting the movement — affected by the bloody events that occurred in Libya, Yemen and Syria — and some supported the reforms that were offered, for fear of slipping toward a democratic transition through violence. But, if we look at the dynamism of the movement, there is no doubt that the February 20 movement is still strongly active in the various events happening in Morocco, both on the political and cultural levels. And the movement is still capable of being prepared in certain moments," he added.

Mahfouz concludes by saying, "On February 20, the third anniversary of the establishment of the movement, every city will take action in a way it deems appropriate. Many cities have decided to hold marches to revive demands and remind [the people] that the solution to most of Morocco's problems is a true democracy and the re-adoption of the constituent movement."
http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/politics/2014/02/failure-gradual-reforms-morocco-february-20-movement.html#ixzz2tlmjKn6o
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"Health and Wellness Tourism in Morocco" now available at Fast Market Research
ClickPress, Tue Feb 18 2014

Recently published research from Euromonitor International, "Health and Wellness Tourism in Morocco", is now available at Fast Market Research

Morocco is establishing itself as a leader within medical tourism in North Africa and in 2012 sales of medical tourism grew by 10% to reach Dh134 million. Morocco has more than 80 plastic surgeons operating in more than 15 clinics located all over the kingdom. Most of these clinics are in Casablanca and Marrakech and the prices of a plastic surgery range between Dh15,000 and Dh40,000. The number of plastic surgeries taken each month is said to be around 1,200 operations.

Euromonitor International's Health and Wellness Tourism in Morocco report offers a comprehensive guide to the size and shape of the market at a national level. It provides the latest market size data 2009-2013, allowing you to identify the sectors driving growth. It identifies the leading companies and offers strategic analysis of key factors influencing the market - be they new legislative, technology or pricing issues. Background information on disposable income, annual leave and holiday taking habits is also included. Forecasts to 2018 illustrate how the market is set to change.

Full Report Details at http://www.fastmr.com/prod/769010_health_and_wellness_tourism_in_morocco.aspx?afid=301

Product coverage: Medical Tourism, Spas.
Data coverage: market sizes (historic and forecasts), company shares, brand shares and distribution data.

Reasons to Get this Report
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For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at http://www.fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156.
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