CESE reviews rural douar development and environmental protection measures

The CESE rural development agenda took center stage as Morocco’s Economic, Social and Environmental Council held its 184th ordinary General Assembly session to examine two draft opinions focused on strengthening rural communities and addressing environmental degradation across the country.

The session, chaired by CESE President Abdelkader Amara, reviewed the two self-initiated draft opinions prepared by the Council. According to the institution, the proposals explore ways to improve the role of rural settlements known as douars while reinforcing policies aimed at protecting Morocco’s natural environment.

The first draft opinion examines the place of the douar as the basic unit of social and territorial organization in rural areas. It highlights its economic, social, cultural, political and environmental importance while identifying the main obstacles that prevent these communities from reaching their full development potential.

Based on its assessment, the Council proposes practical measures to strengthen the role of douars by taking into account their territorial, demographic and social diversity. The recommendations aim to enhance their contribution to rural development through approaches adapted to local realities and needs.

The second draft opinion focuses on combating environmental harm in Morocco. It analyzes how environmental protection can be aligned with economic and social development, presenting both objectives as essential and complementary foundations for sustainable national development.

The proposal outlines measures intended to prevent environmental damage while ensuring that environmental and climate considerations are integrated into public policies. The objective is to preserve the country’s natural capital, promote a healthy living environment and support long-term resilient development.

The Council noted that the initiative builds on its previous work covering biodiversity, forest ecosystems, water resource management, quarries, mineral resources, the blue economy, the circular economy, the water-energy-food-ecosystems nexus, climate change, the energy transition and efforts to reduce food loss and waste.