Moroccan sociological association rejects Israeli participation in world forum

Friday 27 June 2025 - 11:04

By: Zahouani Ilham

Moroccan sociological association rejects Israeli participation in world forum

The Moroccan Sociological Association has voiced its firm opposition to the participation of any Israeli representative in the Fifth World Forum of Sociology, scheduled to take place in Rabat from July 6 to 11, 2025. The association stressed that hosting such an international event in Morocco must be aligned with the nation’s core values and principles, particularly those relating to fundamental national and regional causes.

In a public statement, the association condemned what it described as “barbaric acts committed against Palestinian civilians,” which it sees as attempts by Israeli authorities to annihilate the Palestinian people both physically and culturally. As a result, the association declared it cannot welcome any individual affiliated with the Israeli state.

The statement further argued that Israeli participation should be avoided, even in scientific and academic events, out of respect for national commitments, the sentiments of the Moroccan people, and the deep connections Morocco shares with the region.

Several sociology professors from Moroccan universities have announced a boycott of all forum activities in protest against the inclusion of Israeli academics from institutions such as the Open University of Israel, the Jerusalem Interdisciplinary Center, Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.

The association emphasized that from the beginning of the forum’s planning process, it made clear—both institutionally and individually—that the hosting of this event is contingent on upholding Moroccan values, especially concerning key national issues.

The Moroccan Sociological Association also reaffirmed its condemnation of Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people and denounced all forms of violence targeting their right to exist. It urged the international community to take decisive action to end these violations and to uphold the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, in support of regional and global peace.

Finally, the association underscored the importance of adhering to academic ethics as outlined by the International Sociological Association. It insisted that respect for international charters and resolutions, particularly those concerning Palestine, must guide the selection and programming of participants. While committed to its obligations toward the international body since submitting its hosting bid, the association clarified that it would not support or allow the dissemination of narratives that undermine Palestinian rights.