Morocco's Commitment to Social Solidarity and Inclusion
In a significant event held in Marrakech, Chakib Benmoussa, the High Commissioner for Planning, outlined Morocco's dedicated approach to enhancing social cohesion and solidarity within its society. Speaking at the inaugural conference of an international seminar organized by the International Council on Social Action (ICSW), Benmoussa emphasized the theme 'From Exclusion to Belonging: Promoting Inclusive Practices to Strengthen Social and Community Bonds.' He highlighted the notable advancements and achievements Morocco has made in this domain, reinforcing that building a social state is a national priority. This commitment has led to numerous reforms and structural projects aimed at ensuring that every citizen enjoys dignified living conditions, promoting equal opportunities, and consolidating social cohesion.
Benmoussa remarked, "Under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has embarked on a series of initiatives and reforms in recent years designed to strengthen the foundations of the social state and enhance solidarity mechanisms. These efforts aim to reduce social and territorial disparities and foster greater inclusion across all segments of the population." He specifically acknowledged the role of the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, which collaborates with civil society organizations to address the needs of populations facing climatic challenges, natural disasters, and social deficits in underprivileged urban neighborhoods.
Innovative Approaches to Combat Poverty and Exclusion
Moreover, Benmoussa introduced the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH), a program that has significantly contributed to alleviating poverty and exclusion while reducing regional disparities. He also discussed the ongoing project to generalize social protection, which aligns with the Royal High Guidelines and enshrines the principle of national solidarity. This initiative aims to provide every citizen with an integrated and equitable protection framework, particularly focusing on the most vulnerable members of society.
These efforts reflect a comprehensive vision that sees solidarity and inclusion as essential levers for reinforcing social bonds and reducing disparities. Benmoussa underscored the profound transformations affecting family structures, lifestyles, and functions, affirming the special place that the Kingdom of Morocco grants to the family institution, which serves as the cornerstone of society and the primary space for solidarity and the transmission of values.
Addressing demographic, technological, and climatic challenges, he noted that these rapid changes necessitate anticipatory approaches that enable public policies to effectively accompany ongoing transformations. Morocco's robust statistical system is well-equipped to support public policies and accurately measure their impact on citizens.
Benmoussa further highlighted the crucial role of social cohesion and solidarity in combating isolation and exclusion, particularly in light of the increasing elderly population. Strengthening intergenerational ties is seen as a significant challenge in building an inclusive, supportive, and resilient society.
This international event, co-organized by ICSW Europe and ICSW MENA, continues until October 24 and aims to identify practical, innovative, and replicable approaches to enhance community bonds and reduce loneliness and social isolation. Special attention will be paid to the challenges specific to each region and emerging practices in Europe and the MENA region, focusing on transferable lessons and concrete solutions. The seminar's proceedings will culminate in the adoption of the Marrakech Declaration, which will delineate the contours of isolation phenomena and inclusive practices capable of strengthening social and community ties in light of the new socioeconomic changes faced by CIAS member countries.
As reported by panorapost.ma.
