deBuren

Since its independence from France in 1956, Morocco has attempted to build a modern, democratic state. However, the kingdom soon found itself in a spiral of political struggle which peaked during the regime of King Hassan II. His regime lasted three decades, which are referred to as the 'leaden years'. It was only from the nineties onwards that there was any sign of a democratisation process in Morocco and it has made spectacular progress under the government of the current King Mohammed VI. A truth commission has been established to hear the victims of the violation of human rights over a period of more than forty years.

Nevertheless, the democratisation process remains fragile. The rise of Islamic fundamentalism and the regular removal of critical newspaper editors and journalists to prison raise questions about the democratic story. What stage has democratisation reached in Morocco? Is the country unique and is it a model for the whole of the Arab world? What part can European countries play in democratisation processes in the Arab world?

A debate with Abderrahmane Cherradi, Hassan Boussetta and Hassan Darsi, moderated by Fouad Lahssaini.