Amazigh and Arabic Language: Identity Integration or Artificial Conflict?
In a national context marked by profound identity transformations, the article by Dr. Abdelnabi Aidoudi, entitled “Amazigh and Arabic Language: Integrative Approach in the Construction of Moroccan National Identity,” rekindles the debate on linguistic pluralism from a perspective that goes beyond apparent tensions, advocating for a complementary understanding of Moroccan identity in its constitutional, historical, and cultural dimensions.
Between Past and Present: Arabic as a Civilizational Bridge, Not as a Tool of Domination
The author emphasizes, from the introduction, that the Arabic language—as the language of the Quran—was not imposed on peoples, but rather adopted by several civilizations to access religious texts and to develop an intellectual dynamic.
History shows that Arabic has coexisted peacefully with other languages in the Islamic world, refuting the idea that it erased local identities.
This historical perspective allows for a relativization of current tensions in Morocco, where linguistic divides are sometimes instrumentalized to fuel political polarization. Yet, linguistic plurality has always proven to be a source of richness throughout history.
Language and Identity Within the Constitutional Framework: A False Duality
Aidoudi recalls that the 2011 Moroccan Constitution officially recognizes both Arabic and Amazigh. However, certain narratives persist in presenting these two languages as antagonistic, which the author calls an “artificial duality.”
Moroccan national identity cannot be reduced to a single dimension. It is a complex weave of Arab, Amazigh, African, and Mediterranean references. Undermining one of the two official languages amounts to threatening the constitutional and social balance of the country.
Language as an Electoral Lever: Crisis of Partisan Discourse
The text denounces the opportunistic use of the Amazigh question in political discourse, especially during election periods. An analysis of electoral results shows that some parties claiming to defend the Amazigh cause have only weak representation in predominantly Amazigh-speaking regions. This discrepancy raises the question of the sincerity of political projects supposedly defending linguistic pluralism.
Geopolitical Issues and Protection of Cultural Sovereignty
The author also draws attention to external interference in identity matters. In a context of globalization, it becomes necessary to distinguish between legitimate claims for linguistic rights and projects carrying external agendas aimed at fragmenting national unity. History shows that Morocco has, until now, managed to integrate diversity within the framework of the monarchy and the nation-state.
Towards an Integrative Approach: Moving Beyond the Logic of Conflict
The article concludes with a call for a model of linguistic management based on complementarity and not confrontation. The promotion of the Amazigh language should not be seen as a threat to Arabic, but as a necessary recognition within an inclusive and future-oriented national project.
Conclusion by Maroc Maintenant:
Dr. Aidoudi’s article elevates the linguistic debate to a strategic level. It does not merely call for mutual recognition of the two languages, but proposes an integrated vision where pluralism becomes a vehicle for unity.
The real question posed to our institutions, elites, and citizens is therefore the following: Are we ready to move beyond the language of conflict to build linguistic coexistence based on symbolic justice and cultural equity?
