Morocco makes case for Africa, fairer global governance at UNGA

Morocco echoed a growing coalition of African nations at the United Nations General Assembly this week,calling for a more equitable global order and stronger African representation in international decision-making.

Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch,speaking on behalf of Morocco,emphasized that Africa is central to King Mohammed VI’s foreign policy vision,describing the continent as Morocco’s “strategic depth.”

He urged the international community to support African-led initiatives and recognize Africa’s role as a partner in building global resilience.

“Africa is not just a geographical extension of Morocco,it is the heart of our strategic thinking,” Akhannouch said,citing initiatives spurred by king Mohammed VI to strengthen intra-African solidarity,including Atlantic initiative and the Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline as a transformative project for energy and climate cooperation.

He also pointed to Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup as an opportunity to showcase “the radiant face of Africa.”

Many African leaders attending the UNGA have a clear agenda: securing a stronger voice in global governance,advancing peace and security,and mobilizing resources for sustainable development.

This year’s theme,“Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace,Development and Human Rights,” has provided a platform for African nations to push for reforms that reflect the continent’s growing geopolitical relevance and address its historical marginalization.

However,these aspirations are tempered by ongoing crises and long-standing structural challenges. Conflicts in the Sahel and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The African Union is seeking two permanent seats on the Security Council to represent the continent’s 1.5 billion people,but analysts say the path to reform remains steep. Any change would require a two-thirds majority of UN member states and ratification by the five permanent members,none of whom have shown willingness to share power.

African leaders also voiced strong support for Palestinian statehood,drawing parallels between the Palestinian struggle and Africa’s own history of colonialism.

As global attention remains focused on conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine,African nations are working to ensure their priorities remain on the international agenda. These include climate justice,fair trade,peacebuilding,and institutional reform.