Civilizational diplomacy: a soft lever in Moroccan foreign policy

 Civilizational diplomacy is a type of diplomacy that relies on leveraging a nation's cultural, historical, religious, and value-based heritage as a means of communication and rapprochement with other peoples and countries, with the goal of strengthening international relations and building a positive image of the state abroad. It is considered part of "soft power," as it does not employ material or military means, but rather relies on civilizational elements such as culture, arts, language, traditions, and shared values to spread influence and win hearts and minds.

In Morocco, civilizational diplomacy is a soft power tool employed to enhance its international standing by capitalizing on its diverse cultural, historical, and religious heritage. This diplomacy is also a strategy for employing the Kingdom of Morocco's civilizational and cultural values in the service of foreign policy, given the declining role of hard power globally.

Thanks to its cultural heritage and religious legitimacy, Morocco is a distinguished model in employing cultural diplomacy, providing it with an effective tool to enhance its regional and international presence. This employment is evident through a set of initiatives, institutions, and practices that leverage the Kingdom's cultural, religious, and historical heritage to serve its foreign policy. In this paper, we will focus on four aspects of Moroccan cultural diplomacy.

1- TuThe role of religious legitimacy in Moroccan diplomacy: the model of moderate mediation

Morocco represents a unique model in employing religion as a soft diplomatic tool, built on a spiritual legitimacy deeply rooted in its political and religious history, particularly through the institution of the Commandery of the Faithful, which integrates religion and political authority within a unique constitutional framework. This legitimacy grants King Mohammed VI, as Commander of the Faithful, the status of an official religious authority, enabling him to play a pivotal role domestically and internationally. This authority consolidates Morocco's credibility as a recognized religious actor. This spiritual legitimacy is not merely formal; it is embodied in practical institutional practices, represented by state oversight of religious affairs and the training of imams and religious guides through specialized institutions. This reflects Morocco's orientation toward adopting a moderate and open religiosity, relying on the Maliki school as a jurisprudential basis and a moderate approach to religious discourse.

This Moroccan model acquires a clear diplomatic dimension through its efforts to convey these values to a number of African and European countries, strengthening Morocco's position as a religious mediator capable of confronting extremism and promoting the values of dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

 In addition, the network of Sufi zawiyas (religious schools) spread across sub-Saharan Africa contributes to promoting spiritual mediation. These zawiyas embody a Sufi heritage focused on tolerance, asceticism, and the rejection of violence, adding a civilizational and spiritual dimension to Moroccan mediation. The integration of spiritual legitimacy with this moderate mediation reflects an integrated diplomatic strategy aimed at achieving spiritual security and regional stability, as well as enhancing the global image of Islam as a moderate and tolerant religion. With the escalation of regional challenges such as the spread of extremism and political unrest, there is a need to strengthen this model by developing strong religious institutions, modernizing training curricula, and investing in technology and digital media to spread the values of moderation. Overall, Moroccan religious diplomacy embodies an exceptional case that combines a well-established religious authority with moderate mediation, enabling it to play a pioneering role in promoting intercultural and interfaith dialogue and building bridges of understanding and mutual respect, not only in Africa but also internationally. This balanced vision underscores the importance of investing in religion not only as a cultural and spiritual element, but also as a strategic lever that contributes to achieving peace and sustainable development, and makes Morocco a model to be emulated in the Arab and Islamic region.

2- Religious and educational institutions as tools of cultural diplomacy

Investing in religious and educational institutions is one of the most prominent aspects of Moroccan civilizational diplomacy. The Kingdom views these institutions as strategic platforms for disseminating its moderate religious and cultural model abroad, particularly to sub-Saharan Africa and the Arab and Islamic world.

In this context, it stands out Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidines and Morchidates As one of the pillars of this policy, it supervises the training and formation of religious cadres from several African and European countries according to the Moroccan model, which combines moderation and openness, and relies on the Moroccan religious authority based on... Maliki school, Ash'ari doctrine, and Sunni SufismThis institute contributes to strengthening Morocco's regional and religious role and combating extremism and religious violence by producing a sound and balanced religious discourse.

In addition, it represents University of Al-Qarawiyyin Fez, one of the oldest universities in the Islamic world, is a symbol of traditional religious learning and contributes to strengthening Morocco's international scientific and religious presence. The Kingdom also hosts a network of colleges and institutes that annually graduate religious leaders capable of contributing to the activation of Moroccan spiritual diplomacy.

These institutions strengthen Morocco’s presence in a number of African countries, where they receive students and religious scholars and provide them with educational and spiritual programmes that are dedicated to… rational and open religiosityThus, the function of these institutions is not limited to education, but rather becomes a strategic tool for expanding Morocco's symbolic influence and building spiritual and cultural ties with the countries of the South.

The role played by these institutions goes beyond the educational framework, to form an integral part of Moroccan foreign policyIt enhances the Kingdom's image as an effective soft power with an exportable religious and educational model that is acceptable to a number of peoples and countries.

We must not forget the uniqueness of Morocco's political system, which combines political authority with religious legitimacy. The Emirate of the Faithful, of which King Mohammed VI is the holder, grants the Moroccan monarch a special religious status, as Commander of the Faithful and Protector of the Faith. This status is not limited to domestic affairs; it also enhances Morocco's role on the international stage, particularly in matters related to religion, interfaith dialogue, and the fight against extremism. All of this adds a powerful dimension to Moroccan civilizational diplomacy, as it makes Morocco a trusted and acceptable party in religious discussions and a moderate authority in the Islamic world. This enhances its diplomatic influence and strengthens its regional and international presence.

3 Culture and arts in the service of Moroccan civilizational diplomacy

Cultural and artistic exchange constitutes one of the cornerstones of Morocco's cultural diplomacy, an effective means of fostering rapprochement between peoples and consolidating a positive image of the Kingdom as an open and culturally diverse nation. Within this framework, Morocco has concluded numerous cultural cooperation agreements with countries and international institutions, with the aim of exchanging expertise, supporting artistic initiatives, and promoting Moroccan language and culture abroad.

The most important objectives of these agreements are as follows:

• Organizing Moroccan cultural weeks abroad to enhance the Kingdom's symbolic presence.
• Supporting the teaching of Arabic and Amazigh languages in a number of friendly countries.
• Encouraging student and academic exchange in the fields of culture and arts.
• Cooperation in the field of preservation and protection of intangible cultural heritage.

 In addition to cooperation agreements and cultural and artistic exchanges, which constitute one of the fundamental pillars of Morocco's cultural diplomacy, these agreements contribute to strengthening rapprochement between peoples and presenting a positive image of the Kingdom as an open and culturally diverse country. The Kingdom of Morocco annually organizes a number of internationally renowned cultural and artistic festivals, which contribute to building bridges of cultural dialogue with various countries around the world, as part of its efforts to export its culture and arts through cultural cooperation, exhibitions, and artistic missions abroad. Moroccan culture is considered a bridge between civilizations, especially between Africa, the Arab world, and Europe. Among the largest events organized annually by Morocco to strengthen its cultural diplomacy are:

• Mawazine Festival - Rabat:  One of the world's largest music festivals, it attracts international artists and combines Western, Arab, and African music, reflecting Morocco's openness to global cultures.
• Fez Festival of Sacred Music: Promotes interfaith and intercultural dialogue through Sufi and spiritual music, serving as a platform for tolerance and religious coexistence.
• Gnaoua Festival - Essaouira:  It celebrates Morocco's African heritage, contributes to preserving Morocco's African cultural identity, and strengthens ties with the peoples of the African continent.

      The Kingdom also hosts prestigious institutions such as the University of Al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, along with a vast network of Sufi orders and zawiyas, which constitute a spiritual and cultural extension of sub-Saharan Africa. These zawiyas serve as a parallel lever for Moroccan religious diplomacy, playing a vital role in disseminating Sufi values based on tolerance and moderation. This reinforces Morocco's image as a moderate religious authority and strengthens its presence as an influential soft power within its African heartland.

 4- Morocco’s social and humanitarian diplomacy and providing humanitarian and social support to African and Arab countries.

Social and humanitarian diplomacy represents a pillar of Moroccan civilizational diplomacy, embodying the core values of Moroccan national identity, including solidarity, social cohesion, and compassion. This diplomacy reflects the Kingdom's commitment to supporting African and Arab peoples through diverse development and humanitarian initiatives aimed at promoting stability and sustainable development in geographic regions facing major economic, social, and health challenges.

One of the most prominent aspects of this diplomacy is direct support for social development projects:

• On the African level

 Morocco participates in financing and building health and educational institutions in many sub-Saharan African countries, such as hospitals and health centers that contribute to improving medical services and supporting disease control programs, particularly in areas with weak health infrastructure. In addition, the Kingdom implements programs to combat poverty and improve living conditions through development projects focused on infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and public facilities. It also seeks to support the agricultural and water sectors to ensure food security.

For example, the initiative “Morocco for Africa“ One of the most prominent projects embodying Moroccan social and humanitarian diplomacy, it was launched by King Mohammed VI to support sustainable development in several African countries by funding various development projects, including health and education infrastructure, and improving road networks and public facilities. In the health sector, Morocco has also sent several medical teams to countries such as Mauritania, Senegal, and Mali to provide free medical care and organize vaccination campaigns against infectious diseases, helping strengthen these countries' capacities to address chronic health challenges.

The program is also considered “Moroccans around the world“ An important social initiative, it seeks to support Moroccans living abroad by providing social and cultural services. This program also aims to strengthen ties with African communities residing in Morocco, contributing to building bridges of understanding and humanity between Morocco and African countries.

In terms of education, Morocco grants thousands of scholarships annually to students from African and Arab countries through a program “Excellence Scholarships“In addition to supporting vocational training centers in the Sahel countries, such as youth training centers in Niger and Burkina Faso, which aim to empower youth and enhance employment opportunities, positively impacting economic and social development in these countries.

Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Moroccan humanitarian diplomacy demonstrated rapid response by sending medical aid and protective supplies to several African countries, in addition to organizing joint health awareness campaigns, which strengthened Morocco's image as a responsible and active country on the international stage.

These examples and others confirm that Moroccan social and humanitarian diplomacy is not just a slogan, but rather a comprehensive strategy through which the Kingdom seeks to build strong relations with its regional and international surroundings and promote solidarity and sustainable development within a framework of the civilizational values for which Morocco is distinguished.

Social and humanitarian diplomacy is also embodied in medical and scientific cooperation initiatives, such as sending specialized medical teams to areas experiencing health crises, organizing joint awareness campaigns, and providing urgent aid in cases of natural disasters or humanitarian crises. This is in addition to Morocco's efforts to promote education and vocational training for youth through scholarships and training programs targeting sister countries, contributing to building qualified human capacities that promote comprehensive development.

On the Arab level

A prominent and clear example of this is: Morocco's social and humanitarian diplomacyEspecially the support that Morocco has provided and is providing to Arab countries, we mention:

• Morocco's support for Lebanon

Following the Beirut port explosion on August 4, 2020, King Mohammed VI launched Urgent humanitarian initiative Manifested in:Establishing a Moroccan military field hospital in BeirutEquipped with modern equipment and multidisciplinary medical teams, the hospital provided surgical, hospital and psychological treatment to hundreds of wounded and affected by the explosion, from all sects and backgrounds, in addition to sending... Massive shipments of humanitarian aid More than 18 Moroccan military aircraft Loaded with humanitarian aid and tons of food supplies, in addition to allocating  Annual scholarships for Lebanese students To study at Moroccan universities and higher institutes. The Kingdom has also contributed through Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity...in support of humanitarian and social activities in Lebanon in cooperation with Lebanese associations. Lebanon will never forget the assistance Morocco has provided to the Lebanese army, helping it achieve security and stability in the country.

Morocco's support for Palestine

 Morocco has long been one of the most prominent countries supporting the Palestinian cause on both the political and humanitarian levels. Morocco's political support for the Palestinian cause is part of its humanitarian diplomacy. Some forms of this support include: Unwavering political and diplomatic support
Morocco affirms, in all international and regional forums, its unwavering commitment to supporting the rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative and international legitimacy resolutions. In addition, King Mohammed VI's chairmanship of the Al-Quds Committee This reflects Morocco's central role in defending the holy city on the political, religious, and humanitarian levels. We must not forget this. Bayt Mal Al-Quds AgencyIt is the field arm of the Al-Quds Committee, headquartered in Rabat. It directly funds development and humanitarian projects in Jerusalem and Palestine.

It should be noted that Morocco It periodically sends humanitarian and food aid to the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, and Moroccan field hospitals in the wars that have been taking place in Gaza since 2014, and provides Scholarships for Palestinian students In various academic and professional disciplines, in Morocco, this contributes to the formation of Palestinian elites in medicine, engineering, law, and social sciences.

Morocco's support for other Arab and European countries

As part of Maghreb solidarity, Morocco has provided health and training support to Tunisia, especially during health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This assistance included the supply of medical equipment and the exchange of expertise in the fields of public health and social development. Moroccan humanitarian initiatives have also extended to other Arab countries, such as Yemen, where Morocco contributed food and health aid, in addition to supporting relief efforts implemented by international organizations. Morocco has also participated in rehabilitation and psychological support programs for those affected by conflict in these countries.

As part of the Kingdom of Morocco's cultural diplomacy, the Kingdom is implementing social cooperation and human development programs. Morocco is working to establish long-term development programs with several Arab countries aimed at improving education, health, and social infrastructure. These programs are implemented through cooperation with international and regional institutions and aim to build sustainable local capacities.

On the international level, we must not forget Morocco's contribution to supporting Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Which suffered a devastating fire in April 2019, causing global shock, given the cultural and religious significance of the site, which dates back to the 12th century AD.

This Moroccan initiative was considered an expression of Morocco's commitment to the values of cultural and religious coexistence, Its respect for human heritage, whether Islamic, Christian, or Jewish, also falls within the framework of humanitarian, social, and cultural diplomacy pursued by Morocco to enhance its image as a country of tolerance, openness, and cooperation among civilizations.

In conclusion, and in light of the above, it becomes clear that Morocco's civilizational diplomacy constitutes a fundamental component of Moroccan foreign policy, providing soft tools capable of influencing regional and international contexts, far removed from the logic of coercion or conflict. By leveraging the Kingdom's symbolic capital—religious, cultural, and historical—Morocco has succeeded in consolidating a positive image of itself as a country of pluralism, openness, and moderation. This civilizational diplomacy complements, rather than replaces, political and economic diplomacy. It constitutes a strategic tributary that enhances the Kingdom's regional and international presence and consolidates its image as a stable and open country that embraces the values of tolerance and dialogue between cultures and civilizations in an international context marked by increasing competition for symbolic and moral power.

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