Morocco Champions Multifaceted Approach to Security at UN Forum

Tuesday 14 May 2024 - 10:06

In a comprehensive address at the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ), Morocco's Ambassador to Vienna, Azzeddine Farhane, unveiled the country's holistic and integrated strategy to combat terrorism and transnational organized crime. Farhane's articulate presentation highlighted Morocco's multifaceted approach, meticulously crafted to address security challenges while fostering social progress and religious harmony.

Underpinning Morocco's strategy are three pillars: fortifying security measures, tackling the root causes of extremism through poverty alleviation, and promoting religious tolerance. Farhane elucidated on legal reforms targeting counterterrorism, money laundering, and terror financing, as well as initiatives within the religious sphere to counter radicalization.

Morocco's commitment extends far beyond its borders, with the nation assuming a pivotal role in the Global Counterterrorism Forum and hosting the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism in Africa. This office plays an indispensable role in training personnel across the continent on counterterrorism techniques and upholding human rights standards. Morocco's leadership in this domain was further solidified by its unanimous selection to host the prestigious 93rd session of the Interpol General Assembly in 2025.

Farhane underscored Morocco's dedication to international cooperation, highlighting the country's participation in over 90 bilateral and regional agreements to combat transnational crime. This unified global front, he argued, is essential in effectively addressing the scourge of international organized crime.

On the continental level, Farhane illuminated Morocco's contributions within the African Union, specifically in addressing regional challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and food security. He emphasized that King Mohammed VI's vision for a peaceful and prosperous Africa serves as a guiding principle for the nation's endeavors.

Extending beyond security concerns, Farhane shed light on Morocco's progressive approach to migration. The "National Strategy for Immigration and Asylum" grants immigrants access to education, healthcare, and even the right to establish associations, exemplifying the nation's commitment to inclusivity and human rights.

This multidimensional strategy, coupled with successful security operations in 2023 that dismantled criminal networks and intercepted illegal migration attempts, showcases Morocco's unwavering determination to maintain a delicate balance between security and social progress.

In his concluding remarks, Farhane stressed the critical necessity for international cooperation, asserting that "without political will, without bilateral, regional, and international cooperation, we cannot effectively combat the scourge of international organized crime."