“Morocco is a tree whose roots lie in Africa and whose leaves breathe in Europe.”
Hassan II
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Population
Area
Currency
Religions
Sunni Islam (majority)
GDP (nominal)
Main exports
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Political system
Morocco gained independence in 1956 and was led by Mohammed V, who established a constitutional monarchy with modern institutions. After his death in 1961, his son Hassan II consolidated his power, a period marked by authoritarianism and political repression known as the “Years of Lead.”
In 1975, the Green March, a mobilization of hundreds of thousands of Moroccan civilians toward Western Sahara, precipitated Spain’s withdrawal and brought the territory under Moroccan control. This issue became a lasting pillar of the kingdom’s policy. In the 1980s, Morocco began economic liberalization and structural adjustments under pressure from the IMF and the World Bank.
Mohammed VI, who ascended to the throne in 1999, modernized the state and developed tourism and infrastructure. The 2011 Constitution, adopted following the Arab Spring protests, strengthened certain rights but did not challenge the king’s central role. In exchange for U.S. recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, Morocco joined the Abraham Accords by normalizing relations with Israel in 2020. The country is preparing to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, but continues to face socioeconomic inequalities.
Mohammed VI
In power since 1999, he is the linchpin of the political and economic system. Under his leadership, the country has modernized. He retains control over strategic decision-making, particularly regarding Western Sahara and the green economy. His balanced diplomatic approach has earned him significant regional influence. He is delegating more authority to Crown Prince Moulay Hassan and the technocratic government.
