In a world where crises intersect, respond to each other, and reshape the balance, where does Morocco stand? How does it fit in, and what responses does it offer to these transformations? These questions, essential in an international context of turmoil, structured the intervention of the guest at the Faculty of Legal, Economic, and Social Sciences of Rabat. Indeed, it was around these concerns that Lamia Radi, former Moroccan ambassador to Norway, articulated her remarks. The diplomat immediately described a fragmented world marked by persistent tensions and continuous recompositions. And it is in this challenging context that Morocco deploys responses that take into account both external and internal factors.
A Perpetually Tense International Environment
For the diplomat, there is now a well-established reality: an international system traversed by multiple crises. From the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to the war in Ukraine, passing through tensions in Yemen, Syria, or the Horn of Africa, the overall picture is marked by enduring instability. In this context, Morocco is not a direct actor in these conflicts. However, it directly feels their effects. “These conflicts are not ours, but they have a direct impact on us,” she said, highlighting the rise in energy prices and raw materials as examples. Therefore, foreign policy does not operate in a neutral space. It unfolds in a constrained environment, where external developments require constant adjustments – making “anticipatory capacity central.”
Rising Transnational Threats
In addition to this conflictuality, there is a second level of analysis, more diffuse yet equally determining. That refers to transnational threats’ nature, defined by the former ambassador as “a problem that cannot be solved by a single country.” Furthermore, other factors disrupt international relations. Terrorism, arms, drugs, and human trafficking are no longer isolated phenomena. They now fit into interconnected logics, propelled by networks whose power can rival that of states. The diplomat emphasized the “economic aspect of violence” – a phenomenon crossing borders, complicating state responses further.
Regional Environment under Vigilance
In Morocco’s immediate neighborhood, instability persists, necessitating sustained attention. Algeria is mentioned for its “capacity to cause harm,” requiring constant vigilance in return. Libya, on the other hand, illustrates the consequences of prolonged state collapse, leading to the expansion of militias and trafficking. Further south, in the Sahelian space, the connections between armed groups and criminal networks complicate already precarious balances. Despite these challenges, Morocco can rely on a significant asset: its institutional continuity. “Our greatest asset is governance,” ensuring stability and continuity in a fluctuating international environment.
Diplomatic “Layered Cake” Strategy
Describing Morocco’s actions, Ms. Radi uses an almost metaphorical formula, invoking the “layered cake strategy.” According to her, Morocco does not eliminate its strategies; it stacks them. This involves a constant presence in various international arenas, diversification of partnerships, and tailored bilateral relations, particularly in Africa. Morocco’s evolving role shifts from adaptation to initiative, positioning it as a trusted mediator in regional conflicts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lamia Radi emphasizes that in an uncertain environment, Morocco does not just adapt to external changes. Instead, it engages in a dynamic process of accumulation and projection, gradually defining its influence capacity.
