A new 52-minute documentary titled “The Journey of a King – Morocco Under Mohammed VI” aired on the French channel Public Senat on October 12, offering an in-depth look at the 25-year reign of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI through archival footage, interviews with prominent Moroccan and French officials, and key highlights of significant events in the country.
Directed by journalists Yves Derai and Michaël Darmon, the documentary opens with poignant questions: “Who is this monarch said to be secretive? How has he gradually imposed his vision and projects? Under his rule, Morocco has become a political and economic powerhouse in Africa, how did he achieve this transformation?”
Airing at 9 p.m. (GMT+2), the film is structured in sections, examining not only the king’s governance style but also Franco-Moroccan ties, particularly in light of France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara on July 30.
The documentary features interviews with key figures, including former French President François Hollande, François Soudan, Director of Jeune Afrique magazine, and various Moroccan officials such as Asmaa Lamrabet, a prominent essayist and researcher on women’s issues in Islam, Morocco’s Finance and Economy Minister Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Head of The Mohammed VI Fund for InvestmentMohamed Benchaaboun, head of Moroccoan Employers’ body (CGEM) Chakib Alj and others.
The documentary traces its narrative back to the death of King Hassan II in 1999, marking the ascension of his son, Mohammed VI. It highlights the new king’s departure from his father’s governance style, showcasing how he has redefined the monarchy. The archival footage of the young prince’s early years and reign shows Mohammed VI engaged with his people, opting for action over traditional public speeches and interviews.
The work also sheds light on the king’s dedication and influence in the areas of sports, culture, and tourism, which have enhanced Morocco’s soft power.
The national football team’s historic success at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar exemplified this approach, bringing global attention to Moroccan culture.
The documentary highlights that “under King Mohammed VI, Morocco has become an African power,” exploring the strategies that have enabled such rapid development. Highlighted as the “pilot of the economy,” the king has overseen significant infrastructure projects, including the development of Tanger Med Port and extensive transportation networks. Currently, Morocco ranks fifth in Africa by GDP, surpassing $140 billion.
With a focus on economic growth, the king has fostered trade relationships, exemplified by free trade agreements with numerous countries, positioning Morocco as a strategic business hub. The documentary shows the sovereign commitment to rejoining the African Union which underscores his belief in regional integration and collaboration for development.
Significant societal reforms are also a focus of the documentary, particularly the advancement of women’s rights following the Family Code reform in 2004. The 2011 constitution, shaped by the protests of the February 20 Movement, reflects the king’s responsiveness to his people’s needs.
The documentary also highlighted Morocco’s investment in Renewable energies such as the world’s largest concentrated solar power plant located in Ouarzazate in Central Morocco in addition to the two first Moroccan-manufactured automobiles.
It also showcased Morocco’s resilience in the face of major tragic events such as the recent earthquake that struck several regions in Morocco.
As “Commander of the Faithful,” a title that reflects his religious authority, the monarch promotes a vision of coexistence, which is vital for a nation grappling with radicalism and terrorism. The feature discusses that despite opposition from conservative groups, the king has championed women’s rights in a patriarchal society, embodying a “middle Islam” that resonates with contemporary values.
The film offers a comprehensive exploration of King Mohammed VI’s reign, providing insights into the major changes in Morocco and the complexities of its monarchy, economy, and society.