Moroccans worldwide are celebrating the Throne Day, marking the 25th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s ascension to the throne.
The Throne Day is a national holiday celebrated on July 30th every year and is a time for Moroccans to express their national pride and reflect on the country’s journey under King Mohammed VI’s leadership.
The celebrations include traditional festivities, fireworks, and military parades. This year, Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces (FAR) announced a series of special events to commemorate the 25th anniversary.
The much-anticipated air shows will take place along the M’diq coastline on July 30 and at the Martil Corniche on July 31, with both events starting at 6:00 p.m.
The displays will feature the renowned Green March squadron of the Royal Air Force, performing a series of complex aerial manoeuvres.
In addition to the air shows, parachute demonstrations are planned at the Marina Bou Regreg River in Sale on July 30.
A Quarter Century of Progress
Since ascending to the throne in 1999, King Mohammed VI has been hailed as a great reformer, steering Morocco toward a path of modernization and prosperity.
His reign has been characterised by significant advancements in human rights and across various fields, strengthening Morocco’s position on the global stage.
The King has overseen substantial political reforms, culminating in the adoption of a new constitution in 2011. The constitution redefined the Moroccan political landscape by establishing a “citizenship-based monarchy” and reinforcing democratic principles.
It emphasised the separation of powers, human rights, gender equality, and good governance, setting the stage for a modern and progressive nation.
Economic Development
Under King Mohammed VI’s leadership, Morocco has become a role model of economic growth and innovation in Africa and the Middle East.
The country has invested heavily in infrastructure, transforming its ports, transportation, and industrial sectors to position itself as a gateway to Africa.
The efforts have borne fruit, as Morocco now stands as the leading car producer in the region and a major hub for the aerospace industry, generating over $1 billion in exports annually.
Morocco has also been recognized as the most attractive economy for investments in Africa, according to the Africa Investment Index 2018 by Quantum Global Research Lab and Ernst & Young.
The country’s strategic location and favourable business environment have made it a prime destination for international investors.
Social Reforms and Human Rights
A cornerstone of King Mohammed VI’s reign has been his commitment to social reform and human rights. In 2004, he enacted the Moudawana, a progressive family code that advanced women’s rights significantly.
The landmark legislation granted women joint responsibilities for their families, equal rights in divorce, and new protections against polygamy and child marriage.
The 2011 constitution further enshrined gender equality as a fundamental pillar, reinforcing Morocco’s dedication to empowering women in society and politics.
Morocco’s approach to human rights has also included the establishment of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), an autonomous body that monitors and promotes human rights across the country.
The CNDH has played a crucial role in advancing new migration and asylum policies, enhancing women’s rights, and reforming press codes.
Religious Tolerance and Reforms
As the Commander of the Faithful, King Mohammed VI has championed religious reforms, promoting a moderate and tolerant interpretation of Islam.
Morocco is renowned for its religious tolerance, where Jews, Christians, and Muslims coexist peacefully.
The King has spearheaded efforts to institutionalise religious frameworks and promote Maliki Islam through official training programs for imams and mourchidates (female preachers).
Historical Significance of the Moroccan Monarchy
The Moroccan monarchy traces its roots back to the 8th century and has been a pillar of stability and continuity in the country’s history.
As the 23rd king of the Alaouite Dynasty, King Mohammed VI represents a lineage that has profoundly influenced Morocco’s national identity.
Throughout history, the monarchy has played a dual role as both a temporal and spiritual authority, deeply embedded in Morocco’s cultural fabric.
The 2011 constitutional reforms reinforced this by delineating the King’s powers as Commander of the Faithful (Amir Al Mouminine) and Head of State.