Morocco, a nation brimming with vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, is strategically positioned in North Africa. To pinpoint exactly where is Morocco, it lies at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, bordered by the vast Atlantic Ocean to its west and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea to its north. Its eastern border meets Algeria, while to the south lies the Western Sahara. This unique location has shaped Morocco into a captivating destination, drawing in travelers, historians, and anyone intrigued by geographical significance.
This puts Morocco in a pivotal position on the African continent. Spanning an area of 446,550 square kilometers (172,413 sq. miles), Morocco is slightly larger than the state of California. Including the disputed territory of Western Sahara, the total area expands by another 267,028 sq. km (102,703 sq. mi). The Moroccan landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from fertile coastal plains along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts to rugged mountains and expansive desert regions further inland. Dominating the interior are the Atlas Mountains, acting as a natural barrier that separates the coastal regions from the Sahara Desert. This geographical diversity contributes to a varied climate across the country. Coastal areas enjoy a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. However, moving inland and southward, the climate becomes more extreme, transitioning into a desert climate with hotter temperatures and less rainfall. In terms of land use, approximately 19% of Morocco is arable land, supporting agriculture, while 2% is dedicated to permanent crops. The remaining 79% encompasses other land types, including mountains, deserts, and urban areas.
Morocco is a nation rich in culture and heritage, reflected in its people and traditions. The population of Morocco in 2007 was estimated at 33,757,175, with an annual growth rate of 1.528%. The demographics are primarily composed of Arab-Berber ethnic groups, accounting for 99% of the population. The religious landscape is overwhelmingly Muslim, with 99.99% adhering to Islam. There are also small minority communities, including an estimated Jewish population of 4,000 and a Christian population of less than 1,000. Arabic serves as the official language of Morocco, but a tapestry of languages is spoken throughout the country. Several Berber dialects are prevalent, particularly in rural regions. French holds a significant position as the language of business, government, and diplomacy, a legacy of Morocco’s protectorate past. Interestingly, Spanish is also used in the northern parts of the country, reflecting geographical proximity to Spain. English is rapidly gaining traction, especially among younger, educated Moroccans, and is taught in public schools from the fourth year onwards.
Education is compulsory for 9 years in Morocco, yet literacy rates still reveal disparities, particularly between genders and locations. The overall literacy rate for the population aged 15 and over was estimated at 51.7% in 2003, with a significant gap between men (64%) and women (39.4%). Health indicators include an infant mortality rate of 38.85 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2007 and a life expectancy at birth of 71.22 years. The workforce in Morocco was estimated at 11.25 million in 2006, with an unemployment rate of 7.7%.
The political structure of Morocco is defined as a constitutional monarchy. The constitution, initially established in March 1972 and revised in 1992 and 1996, outlines the framework of governance. The head of state is the King, while the head of government is the Prime Minister. Morocco operates with a bicameral Parliament, representing the legislative branch, and a Supreme Court forming the judicial branch. Major political parties include the Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP), Istiqlal (Independence) Party (PI), and the Party of Justice and Development (PJD), among many others, reflecting a diverse political landscape. Universal suffrage is granted starting at 18 years of age.
Morocco’s economy in 2006 had a GDP of $56.72 billion, with a growth rate of 6.7%. The per capita GDP (PPP) was $4,400. The nation is endowed with natural resources, notably phosphates, fish, manganese, lead, silver, and copper. Agriculture plays a significant role, producing barley, citrus fruits, vegetables, olives, and livestock, alongside a thriving fishing industry. Key industries include phosphate mining, manufacturing and handicrafts, construction, public works, and energy. Sector contributions to GDP in 2006 were: agriculture (13.3%), industry (31.2%), and services (55.5%). The monetary unit is the Moroccan dirham. In terms of trade, Morocco’s exports in 2006 amounted to $11.72 billion, primarily partnering with the EU (71.5%), India (4.1%), the U.S. (2.6%), and Brazil (2.4%). Imports reached $21.22 billion, with major partners including the EU (52.1%), Saudi Arabia (4.8%), Russia (6.7%), China (5.2%), and the U.S. (3.4%).
Morocco’s history is deeply intertwined with its strategic location. Throughout centuries, various civilizations have left their mark, from the Phoenicians and Romans to Arab forces who introduced Islam in the 7th century AD. The Alaouite dynasty, which has reigned since 1649, traces its lineage back to the Prophet Muhammad. European powers also competed for influence, with Portugal initially controlling the Atlantic coast in the 15th century. France’s interest grew from the 1830s onwards, culminating in the Treaty of Fes in 1912, which established Morocco as a French protectorate. Spain also assumed a protectorate role over northern and southern zones. Following World War II, nationalist movements gained momentum, advocating for independence. Key milestones included the Istiqlal Party manifesto in 1944 and the eventual return of Sultan Mohammed V from exile in 1955, leading to Morocco’s independence on March 2, 1956. The year 2006 marked Morocco’s 50th anniversary of independence.
In contemporary governance, Morocco is divided into 16 administrative regions, further subdivided into provinces and prefectures. These regions are administered by Walis (governors) appointed by the King. The Moroccan Constitution vests ultimate authority in the King. He presides over the Council of Ministers, appoints the Prime Minister, and can dissolve Parliament or rule by decree. The bicameral legislature consists of the Chamber of Representatives (directly elected) and the Chamber of Counselors (indirectly elected). Parliament’s powers have expanded over time, encompassing budgetary matters and government oversight.
Morocco’s foreign relations are characterized by its moderate stance and close ties with Europe and the United States. It is a member of the UN, Arab League, and other international organizations. A significant aspect of Morocco’s foreign policy is the Western Sahara issue. For over three decades, Morocco and the Polisario Front have been in dispute over the Western Sahara territory. Morocco asserts sovereignty based on historical ties, while the Polisario Front seeks independence for the region. The UN has been involved in seeking a resolution, and negotiations continue to address the status of Western Sahara. Despite this ongoing issue, Morocco maintains diplomatic relations with Algeria, although tensions persist due to Algeria’s support for the Polisario Front.
U.S.-Moroccan relations are historically strong, dating back to 1777 when Morocco was the first nation to seek diplomatic ties with the nascent United States. The Treaty of Peace and Friendship, initially negotiated in 1787 and renegotiated in 1836, remains in force, representing the longest unbroken treaty relationship in U.S. history. Morocco is considered a key ally of the U.S. in the region, and cooperation spans various areas, including counterterrorism and economic development. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has maintained an active program in Morocco since 1953, focusing on trade, education, and governance. The Peace Corps has also been present in Morocco since 1963, with volunteers contributing to health, education, and community development.
In conclusion, Morocco’s location in North Africa is not just a matter of geographical coordinates; it is a defining element of its identity. Positioned at the gateway between continents and cultures, Morocco has historically been a melting pot of influences, shaping its diverse society, rich heritage, and strategic importance on the global stage. From its stunning landscapes ranging from coastlines to deserts, to its vibrant cities like Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fes, Morocco offers a compelling blend of tradition and modernity. As a stable and evolving nation, Morocco continues to navigate its place in the world, leveraging its unique location and historical legacy to build a prosperous future.
