Morocco is making waves on the global stage, securing a prominent position within the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and significantly expanding its influence in international agricultural affairs. This move underscores the nation's dedication to global food security and sustainable practices. But what does this mean, and what are the challenges Morocco faces in this new role? Let's dive in!
At the 179th FAO conference in Rome, Morocco was elected to the vice-presidency of the FAO Council, a position it will hold until 2029. This places Morocco within the organization's core executive body, which consists of 49 member states. According to Ambassador Youssef Balla, Morocco's representative to UN agencies in Rome, this election reflects the international community's trust in Morocco's commitment to the FAO's goals.
During the conference, Morocco expressed its support for the FAO's work program and budget adjustments for 2026-2027. A key highlight was the allocation of $5 million to vital areas like the Technical Cooperation Program and Codex Alimentarius. This funding aims to bolster support for developing countries and enhance the FAO's overall performance. Morocco also emphasized the importance of digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and results-based management within the FAO, advocating for a modern and efficient organization focused on delivering impactful results.
The conference itself focused on organizational reforms and governance improvements to address global food security challenges, all against the backdrop of pressure on food markets and the escalating effects of climate change. This aligns with the UN80 initiative, which aims to modernize the United Nations system.
But here's where it gets controversial... Recent FAO documentation reveals a complex agricultural landscape for Morocco. While the country dominates capture fishing, particularly of small pelagics, and remains a net exporter, the net export ratio has decreased.
Furthermore, Morocco exhibits the lowest aquaculture consumption among the covered countries, at a mere 0.1 kg per person annually, representing only 0.6% of total aquatic product consumption. The market's reliance on capture fisheries creates a structural dependence on marine products, relying on a traditional model. Despite having an aquaculture strategy, dedicated legislation, and two coastlines with favorable conditions, Morocco's aquaculture production lags behind its Mediterranean neighbors.
Sustainability is another key concern. Research cited by the FAO indicates that Moroccan Mediterranean trawling operations discard a significant portion of their catches, ranging from 1.06% to 43.7%, with variations depending on the season and location. This study, published in the Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, analyzed 103 species from 59 families discarded by trawling fleets, including 16 elasmobranchs and 88 bony fish. Bottom trawling operations drag nets along the seabed, capturing diverse marine species, with substantial portions subsequently discarded.
In terms of resource management, Morocco has extended subsidies for solar pumps and drip irrigation across 51,000 hectares, while increasing desalination capacity through solar energy integration. The FAO's 2025 land and water resources report highlights Morocco's adaptation measures for water scarcity and soil degradation. Solar-powered desalination units provide valuable resources for coastal irrigated areas where conventional water availability decreases.
The Souss-Massa region is implementing a “territorial development pact” to promote sustainable soil management. This framework includes a three-year action plan coordinating soil, vegetation, and water management to prevent land degradation. The FAO notes that these territorial approaches provide overall coherence to land management by integrating planning, local consultation, and coordinated usage.
And this is the part most people miss... Morocco's influence extends beyond the FAO. The kingdom was re-elected to the International Maritime Organization Council for 2025-2026, securing its 17th mandate among Category C's 20 seats. Morocco also secured re-election as vice-president of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Hydrological Program for the Arab region for the 2025-2027 mandate. Furthermore, Morocco hosted the 19th World Water Congress in Marrakech from December 1-5, organized by the Equipment and Water Ministry with the International Water Resources Association (IWRA).
What do you think? Does Morocco's approach to resource management and its new international roles align with sustainable development goals? Are there any aspects that raise concerns? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
