Morocco’s Commitment to Religious Diversity
At a recent side event during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Morocco's ambassador to the Holy See, Rajae Naji Mekkaoui, emphasized what she referred to as the "Moroccan model" of religious coexistence. This model, she noted, is a unique example of diversity and unity, acknowledged internationally, and is rooted in thirteen centuries of history, the Commandership of the Faithful, and a longstanding tradition of openness among various cultures and religions. During this event dedicated to interreligious dialogue and combating hate speech, Mekkaoui articulated that Morocco has developed a distinctive model in which religious diversity serves as a unifying factor rather than a source of division.
Mekkaoui explained that the foundation of this model lies in robust institutional frameworks. The 2011 Constitution recognizes Islam as the official religion while simultaneously guaranteeing freedom of belief and worship. Additionally, it assigns the sovereign, in his capacity as the Commander of the Faithful, the responsibility of safeguarding the faithful and ensuring respect for religious diversity.
Furthermore, the ambassador highlighted the doctrinal foundations of Moroccan Islam, which rests on three pillars: Ash'arism for faith, Maliki for law, and Sufism for ethics. These schools of thought promote a balance between reason and revelation, encouraging a moderate and open approach to religious practice. In this regard, Morocco defines itself not as a society of religious minorities but as a "plural nation," enriched by the diversity of its cultural and spiritual components.
Historical Context of Religious Coexistence
To exemplify this rich tradition, Mekkaoui recounted the history of Jewish communities in Morocco, noting that the Kingdom has long served as a refuge for persecuted populations. Moroccan Jews have been fully integrated into society while retaining their religious and legal institutions. Notably, Morocco remains one of the few countries where rabbinical courts continue to adjudicate personal status and inheritance matters within the Jewish community.
The ambassador also recalled a significant episode from World War II, where in 1942, under pressure from Nazi authorities and the Vichy regime, King Mohammed V refused to impose anti-Semitic laws or hand over Moroccan Jews. The sovereign reportedly stated, "There are no Jews in Morocco, only Moroccan subjects," affirming that "a father never abandons his family." This historical commitment to coexistence exemplifies Morocco’s longstanding dedication to religious pluralism.
Mekkaoui further underscored the role of Moroccan religious institutions in promoting a moderate form of Islam and preventing extremism. Key institutions include the Superior Council of Ulemas, the Mohammadia League of Ulemas, and the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulemas, which is responsible for training imams and preachers across various countries on the continent. These organizations actively engage in disseminating values such as tolerance, respect for differences, and peaceful coexistence.
Additionally, she mentioned the University of Al-Quaraouiyine in Fez, founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihriya and often recognized as the oldest university in the world. For centuries, this institution has welcomed students from diverse faiths and backgrounds, becoming a space for intellectual exchange and religious dialogue.
On the international stage, Morocco has advocated for strengthening interreligious dialogue and combating hate speech for several years. The Kingdom has played a pivotal role in the establishment of the International Day for the Fight Against Hate Speech, celebrated on June 18. However, Mekkaoui acknowledged that the rise of hate speech, exacerbated by social media and digital technologies, poses an increasing challenge.
In light of these threats, Morocco is calling for enhanced international cooperation, primarily focused on better regulating the digital space, preventing online radicalization, and finding a balance between protecting freedom of expression and combating incitement to hatred.
As reported by es.yabiladi.com.
