Morocco's strategic role in revitalizing the African Union's Economic Council

Morocco’s leadership of the African Union's Economic, Social, and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) has been marked by unprecedented achievements and forward-looking strategies that had a tangible impact on the ground, according to Khalid Boudali, who recently completed his four-year term at the helm of the council (2020-2024).

Boudali highlighted that the Moroccan presidency repositioned the council within the African ecosystem, making it one of the most effective and influential bodies in the Union. He discussed the country’s contributions at a conference organized by the Hand in Hand Foundation for Sustainable Development in Meknès.

Appointed as a strategic advisor and special envoy for civil society to the African Union, Boudali emphasized that the council had become a key player in the development agendas of the continent. The council has evolved into a model of participatory governance, going beyond its traditional advisory role to become a key driver of democratic transition and comprehensive development in Africa.

He stressed that Morocco’s return to the African Union was not merely a restoration of its natural position but a strategic move to strengthen cooperation and continental integration. It enhanced Morocco’s standing as a key player in peace, security, economic integration, and sustainable development through major projects like the Africa-Europe gas pipeline and the strengthening of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Over the past four years, the council, under Morocco’s leadership, has made significant strides in enhancing the role of civil society in strengthening governance across the continent. Boudali noted the changes that were made, including the revision of the council’s founding charter to promote better governance, transparency, and accountability, as well as improvements in legal mechanisms to ensure oversight and accountability.

He further pointed out that reforms also targeted the participation of civil society, enabling academic institutions and organizations to become key partners in shaping continental policies and sustainable development. Additionally, Boudali emphasized the role of ECOSOCC in overseeing election transparency in Africa, contributing to democratic legitimacy by conducting missions and publishing reports that enhance electoral fairness and transparency.