In a speech delivered at a scientific conference in El Jadida, marking the 20th anniversary of the inscription of the city of Mazagan on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, André Azoulay, the Royal Advisor, offered a profound vision of Morocco’s leadership in promoting cultural and heritage diversity. This speech, delivered in the context of celebrating Moroccan heritage, raises essential questions about Morocco’s role as an international reference in respecting diversity and protecting heritage.
Using the “journalism of perspective” methodology, we will analyze this speech and connect it to the broader context of Morocco’s cultural and heritage policies.
Context: Morocco as a Hub of Diversity and Heritage
André Azoulay began his speech by affirming that Morocco has become a global leader in promoting the legitimacy of cultural diversity. He emphasized that this diversity is reflected in the comprehensive preservation of the Kingdom’s tangible and intangible heritage. But what does this mean exactly? And how can Morocco serve as a model for the world amid the challenges many countries face in preserving their heritage?
Azoulay linked this achievement to the royal plan launched by King Mohammed VI for the rehabilitation of ancient cities, a project aimed at strengthening national identity and showcasing Morocco’s civilizational radiance. But is the restoration of ancient cities enough to achieve this goal? What other roles can cultural policies play in promoting diversity?
Morocco and UNESCO: Achievements and Challenges
Azoulay highlighted the “Moroccan exception” with the inscription of numerous sites and intangible heritages on UNESCO’s lists. This achievement is not just international recognition but also a confirmation that Morocco possesses a rich and diverse heritage worthy of protection. But what challenges does the Kingdom face in preserving this heritage? And can these achievements become a tool for promoting cultural tourism and sustainable development?
Azoulay stressed that these successes should not discourage efforts but rather inspire more work. But how can Morocco continue this success in the face of economic and social challenges? Is there a need to strengthen international cooperation in this field?
Essaouira: A Model for Sustainable Development
Azoulay pointed to the experience of the city of Essaouira, which 35 years ago chose to build its renaissance on the foundation of its cultural and artistic heritage. This experience, as he described it, was not just an investment in aesthetics and art but also a lever for sustainable development. But what lessons can other Moroccan cities learn from Essaouira’s experience? And how can this model be scaled nationally?
A question arises here: Can Morocco’s ancient cities become centers of economic and cultural development? And what mechanisms can help achieve this goal?
Diversity as a Driver of Social Modernity
Azoulay affirmed that Morocco has made its diversity the central engine of its social modernity. This diversity, as he noted, is what distinguishes Morocco in a world grappling with the temptations of denial, exclusion, and the illusions of extremism. But how can this diversity translate into concrete policies to strengthen social cohesion? And can cultural diversity be a tool to combat extremism?
Azoulay mentioned that Morocco proudly raises the flag of diversity in the world, but what tools can enhance this role internationally? And how can Morocco become a voice for moderation and diversity in international forums?
Future Challenges: Between Achievements and Ambitions
Azoulay concluded his speech by emphasizing that Morocco must not rest on its laurels but should work to solidify and expand its commitment to protecting heritage and memory. But what practical steps can Morocco take to achieve this goal? Is there a need to revisit current cultural policies?
Azoulay highlighted that Morocco stands on the brink of a promising future, but how can this promise translate into tangible reality? And what roles can educational and media institutions play in raising awareness about the importance of heritage and diversity?
Conclusion: Morocco as a Global Reference
André Azoulay’s speech is not just a discussion of Morocco’s cultural achievements but also a call to reflect on how to transform these achievements into a lever for sustainable development and social cohesion. Morocco, as Azoulay noted, has become an international reference in respecting diversity and protecting heritage, but this role requires ongoing efforts to strengthen and expand it.
Ultimately, Azoulay presents an ambitious vision for Morocco as a hub of diversity and heritage, but realizing this vision requires collective engagement from both the state and society. Can Morocco become a model for the world in promoting diversity and social modernity? The answer lies in the efforts we all make to achieve this goal.
