The House of Advisors has once again put the issue of the predominance of French in Moroccan administration and education back on the table. A parliamentary report recommends a rebalancing in favor of Arabic and Amazigh, the country’s two official languages.
The report highlights a flagrant imbalance in the use of languages in Morocco. Arabic and Amazigh, although enshrined as official languages by the Constitution, are struggling to gain a prominent place in the fields of administration and education.
In light of this observation, the report calls on the government to assume its responsibilities by giving priority to Arabic and Amazigh. Emphasis is also placed on the importance of the most widely used foreign languages, particularly English, in accordance with constitutional provisions.
The report deplores the current situation, describing it as “unacceptable” and not in line with the strategic orientations set for education. It urges the competent authorities to take effective measures to rectify the situation.
The report highlights the marginalization of Arabic and Amazigh in the workings of the Moroccan state. Despite their official status, their actual presence remains limited, particularly with regard to Amazigh.
This situation has become even more worrying since the 2011 constitution established Amazigh as an official language alongside Arabic. However, its integration into the educational and administrative systems remains timid.