“Lessons for the Future” — The Memory of Migration Must Not Die
Aziz Rbah/
The book “Moroccans in Norway: Migration and Paths” is a valuable initiative by Mr. Jamaleddine Belarbi, former representative of the Moroccan News Agency (MAP) in Norway. It contributes to documenting a part of Moroccan memory abroad and appreciating migration paths.
The book connects the present, represented by the fourth generation, with the past, specifically the first generation, presenting a diverse array of Moroccan talents who chose to migrate to Norway and were able to assert their presence in various fields while maintaining their ties to their homeland.
Undoubtedly, the reality of the Moroccan community in Norway is more rich and complex than any single work can encompass; however, this book successfully sheds light on important aspects of its reality and contributions, opening the door for further research and documentation.
It would be beneficial for such initiatives to expand, and for MAP representatives, alongside some officials from Moroccan diplomatic missions abroad, to compete in producing similar works that document the paths of Moroccans around the world, especially given the opportunities the cultural sector provides for supporting publishing and authorship.
This would have a dual impact: on one hand, it would help raise awareness of the realities of Moroccans worldwide and their effective skills in various fields; on the other hand, it would serve as a strong incentive for more Moroccan talents representing the nation well in host countries, enhancing a sense of belonging and pride in national identity.
Furthermore, such works could become a genuine lever for Morocco’s cultural diplomacy by highlighting a positive image of Moroccan citizens abroad and reinforcing their role as active participants in host communities, benefiting national interests and strengthening its international influence.
It might also be useful and impactful for the Ministry of Culture to organize a summer exhibition to showcase such publications, alongside highlighting the creativity of Moroccans around the world in various religious, cultural, scientific, and economic fields.
This exhibition could also feature their investment projects and inventions, inviting officials and representatives from financial institutions and others to engage in a direct and constructive dialogue with participants, thereby enhancing cooperation and partnership opportunities.
Documenting these experiences is not a cultural luxury but rather an investment in collective national memory and in building bridges of communication between generations inside and outside the country, serving the present and future of Morocco.
The good is ahead of us.
