The French Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, arrived in Rabat on Wednesday, July 15, leading a high-level delegation of twelve ministers. As several agreements are expected to be signed during the visit, the trip also coincides with rising tensions over human rights concerns after Moroccan authorities initiated legal proceedings against a journalist and an artist.

Mehdi Alioua, a sociologist at the International University of Rabat and Chair of Migration, Mobility and Cosmopolitanism, shares his insights on the evolving dynamics between Paris and Rabat, particularly in relation to sub-Saharan Africa.

a subtle rivalry between Morocco and France in africa

It appears that a subtle France vs. Morocco rivalry has been unfolding across sub-Saharan Africa in recent years. As France loses ground or adjusts its influence, Morocco has been steadily establishing itself and expanding its investments. Has the Moroccan Kingdom become the rival France never anticipated on lands it once considered its own?

Mehdi Alioua responds: Partly yes, partly no. First, no, because much of Morocco’s investments are made through joint ventures with French companies or in coordination with French diplomacy. There is still strong South-South cooperation that also benefits from North-South ties between Rabat and Paris. However, yes, because Morocco has gone further with fully Moroccan investments and a clearly stated ambition by the Moroccan head of state to pursue an African policy for Africa.

can Morocco help mend french-Sahel relations?

In the Sahel, where relations between France and the AES countries have deteriorated, Morocco’s growing influence raises the question: Could Rabat play a role in improving these strained ties?

Yes, Morocco is actively trying to play such a role. However, I do not believe the situation is as dire at the people-to-people level. The issue is more complex. There are many Franco-Malians—taking Mali as an example—who feel the strain is more political than societal. New political regimes in the region have exploited populist anti-France sentiments, which is not how Moroccan diplomacy operates.

It is essential to recognize that Morocco has millennia-old ties with Sahelian countries, predating Islam and only strengthening with its spread. A famous dynasty, which inspired the French word marabout (al-mourabitoune), originated from the Sahel and ruled from Aghmat near Marrakech, an empire stretching from Spain to present-day Guinea and Mali. These deep-rooted historical connections allow Moroccan diplomacy to revive and leverage these relationships. We are neighbors separated by the Sahara, yet we have navigated this vast desert for centuries.

human rights concerns in Morocco

Recently, Moroccan authorities have detained prominent critics, including Franco-Moroccan journalist Ali Lmrabet and rapper Mehdi Black Wind. Should this be a cause for concern?

Any instance of journalists or artists being imprisoned should always raise concerns. In this case, the authorities claim that justice is handling these cases independently. The detained individuals have the right to defend themselves. The journalist has been released but remains under investigation. The other case is less clear, but human rights lawyers and activists in Morocco are mobilizing to defend the individuals, and the justice system will present its charges. Morocco has made significant strides in human rights over the years, though occasional setbacks occur.

is Morocco as attractive as France in africa?

No, not yet. However, Morocco is becoming increasingly appealing. The Moroccan government is clearly focused on attracting more interest, as seen in its substantial investment in hosting the African Nations Cup. Yet, this strategy carries risks. Domestically, many Moroccans question why so much money is poured into stadiums while persistent poverty remains. Internationally, a single incident—a final match controversy between Morocco and Senegal—was enough to turn a portion of African public opinion against Morocco. Statements boasting about superior Moroccan pitches and facilities without humility have also undermined the country’s diplomatic efforts. Morocco’s appeal is growing, but it also faces skepticism. It is unlikely to match France’s allure until it achieves higher economic development and greater wealth. Only then might Morocco become as—or even more—attractive than France to African nations.