Doctoral Thesis Defense in Political Science by Mr. Muhammad Reza SULEIMAN

Euromed University of Fes (UEMF) is pleased to inform the public of the

doctoral thesis defense in "Political Science"

The thesis defense will take place on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at UEMF 

Location: the Main Hall of the Incubator (LOC001994) 

The thesis will be presented by Mr. Muhammad Reza

SULEIMAN Under the theme:

“ Transregionalism and National Interest: An Analysis of the Challenges and Opportunities of Morocco’s Membership of ECOWAS ”

Abstract 

Morocco’s bid for full membership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), initiated in 2017, has faced significant challenges despite initial support from some member states. This study explores the factors shaping the membership process, with a focus on ECOWAS member states’ interests and concerns. The research identifies four key propositions: (1) national interests influence states’ engagement with external entities, (2) Morocco’s membership offers mutual benefits, (3) Morocco uses its historical, cultural, and economic ties with West Africa to advocate for integration, and (4) political leadership and public opinion in certain ECOWAS states hinder Morocco’s membership due to concerns over identity, regional influence, and economic competition. The study combines constructivism, which emphasizes shared values and collective identities, with complex interdependence that highlights economic and security linkages between regions. Findings show that Morocco and ECOWAS share deep historical, cultural, and economic ties, particularly in trade, religious scholarship, migration, and cultural exchange. However, national priorities of ECOWAS members, including security, political identity, and economic competitiveness, often overshadow these shared interests. Morocco’s advanced infrastructure and expertise in sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, and telecommunications could contribute to West Africa’s growth, and its involvement could strengthen regional stability through counterterrorism and crime prevention efforts. Despite these advantages, opposition from member states persists, driven by concerns about Morocco’s geographic location, foreign policy alignments, and the absence of a formal protocol for admitting non-West African countries. Public opinion in some ECOWAS states resists Morocco’s membership, fearing it could disrupt regional unity. However, this thesis argues that such perceptions are misinformed. The study shows significant alignment between Morocco’s goals and ECOWAS’s Vision 2050, particularly in economic development and security cooperation. The potential outcomes of Morocco’s bid are either full membership, granting voting rights and privileges but requiring institutional adjustments, or continued Observer status. This research suggests Morocco’s integration would reshape African regionalism by prioritizing economic cooperation over traditional regional identities, especially in light of initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). To overcome barriers to membership, the study recommends Morocco leverage its Observer status to strengthen diplomatic ties with ECOWAS states, align trade policies with ECOWAS standards, and implement soft power strategies such as educational exchanges and counterterrorism cooperation. Future research could explore informal trade networks between Morocco and West African states, and the socio-economic impact of West African migrants in Morocco, offering insights into more inclusive regional integration policies. While challenges remain, Morocco’s full integration into ECOWAS presents opportunities for enhanced stability, economic growth, and collective security in West Africa and beyond.

This thesis will be presented before the jury members: