Experts Call for Intellectual Leadership to Ease Morocco-Algeria Tensions

Despite this culture produced by the military regime, the possibility of returning to normal relations that bind the two peoples remains open and rests on the elites of the two countries, says Professor of Political Science at the University of Orléans, Omar Abbadi, in an op-ed published by the pan-African magazine Jeune Afrique. According to him, the intellectual elites of Morocco and Algeria have a major role to play in this complex crisis. "They must raise awareness among their compatriots on this issue and, with the strength of their media influence, publish opinion pieces or scientific articles, participate in thematic roundtables, intervene in television and radio programs. They can also use social networks to share insightful and enlightened reflections, and thus help deconstruct the prejudices and stereotypes that exacerbate tensions, in order to promote constructive dialogue and mutual understanding. Through debates and conferences, these elites can highlight the socio-cultural similarities between the two peoples, and emphasize the crucial importance of cooperation and mutual respect."

What about the involvement of Moroccan and Algerian historians? "Similarly, in order to mitigate any sense of hatred, it is incumbent upon Moroccan and Algerian historians to revive the memory of the events in which the two countries have shown solidarity. Algerian historians can, for example, highlight the military intervention of Morocco, in solidarity with its ’Algerian brothers’ during the Battle of Isly (1844), which led to the Treaty of Lalla Maghnia. They can also recall the speech of King Mohammed V at the United Nations demanding, with fervor and selflessness, the independence of Algeria - a speech that still resonates today," analyzes Amr Abbadi. According to him, it is up to Moroccan historians to "recall the gestures of support and respect that Algeria had for Morocco, such as when Hassan II announced on August 21, 1972, that Houari Boumédiène had been the first head of state to have congratulated him on having crushed the coup attempt [of General Oufkir], or the moving behavior of Abdelaziz Bouteflika crying over the death of Hassan II in Rabat, in 1999".

The academic is convinced that "by recalling these emblematic moments, the historians of the two countries can help dispel the mists of ignorance and prejudice that fuel contemporary conflicts, and strengthen the fraternal ties between the two nations." He also counts on the role of universities. "Universities also play a crucial role in facilitating exchanges between Moroccan and Algerian youth, despite the closure of borders. By implementing virtual exchange programs (collaborative online courses, webinars, joint research projects), these institutions offer a platform that allows students and researchers from the two countries to collaborate remotely. This collaboration fosters mutual understanding and encourages intercultural dialogue, which lays the foundations for future cooperation and lasting reconciliation," assures Abbadi, adding that research institutes and think tanks "have the potential to trigger significant change by raising awareness among younger generations about regional issues."

And he concludes: "The involvement of intellectual elites is therefore essential to transform the perception that each has of the other, and to establish a climate of trust and cooperation between Morocco and Algeria. By joining forces to tear down the wall of mistrust, these elites can pave the way for a radiant and prosperous future, where fraternity will triumph over division, and the two peoples will move forward hand in hand."