Moroccans commemorate on Sunday the 26th anniversary of the passing of King Hassan II, who ruled Morocco for nearly four decades and played a pivotal role in modernizing the country.
King Hassan II, who ascended to the throne in 1961, spearheaded the economic development, political stability, and territorial unity of the kingdom.
During his tenure, the country reclaimed key regions, including Sidi Ifni in 1969 and Oued Eddahab in 1979. His most iconic legacy is the peaceful Green March of 1975, when 350,000 Moroccans marched to assert sovereignty over the Sahara, a defining moment in Moroccan history.
The anniversary falls just weeks before the 49th celebration of the Green March. His approach to resolving the Sahara dispute through diplomacy and popular mobilization is regarded as an exemplary model for peaceful conflict resolution.
Morocco also achieved notable progress in agriculture under King Hassan II, largely due to the “dam policy” he initiated in 1966. Designed to develop water infrastructure and enhance the agricultural sector, the program proved vital during periods of drought and water shortages.
Coupled with ambitious agricultural reforms, these initiatives have positioned Morocco as a key player in global agriculture.
Beyond his contributions to economic growth, King Hassan II championed social policies intended to enhance the well-being of Moroccan people.
He promoted women’s rights, strengthened family institutions, expanded social housing, and worked to uphold human rights, all while maintaining the country’s strong Islamic, Arab, and African identity.
Internationally, King Hassan II was known for his diplomatic acumen and leadership on the global stage. He played a critical role in major regional and international issues, including the Arab-Israeli conflict and UN peace missions.
Under his leadership, Morocco became a founding member of key organizations like the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to today’s African Union, and the Arab Maghreb Union.
In 2022, King Hassan II’s contributions to Africa were further recognized when Ethiopia awarded him a posthumous Pan-African Prize for his efforts in decolonization and promoting pan-Africanism.