France’s Minister for Gender Equality and the Fight Against Discrimination, Aurore Bergé, is set to visit Morocco from June 23 to 25 in a move to enhance bilateral cooperation on feminist diplomacy, human rights, and social issues. This visit builds on the strategic dialogue initiated following President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco in October 2024.
A key focus of Bergé’s trip is the promotion of women’s economic empowerment. In Rabat, she will meet with Naïma Ben Yahia, Morocco’s Minister of Solidarity, Social Inclusion, and Family, to discuss joint initiatives aimed at preventing violence against women. The two ministers are expected to announce a joint declaration of intent to integrate women’s rights into public policy.
In Nouaceur, near Casablanca, Bergé will tour the Safran Nacelles industrial facility and the Institute of Aeronautics Trades to explore the role of women in Morocco’s industrial sector, with particular attention to vocational training and professional integration programmes.
Her itinerary also includes meetings with Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Minister of Economy and Finance; Amina Bouayach, President of the National Human Rights Council; and Ahmed Abbadi, Secretary General of the Rabita of the Ulemas, to address gender-related issues at governmental and institutional levels. Additionally, she will review field projects supported by the French Development Agency, including the “Ajyal Égalité” programme that aids women affected by violence.
In Marrakech, Bergé will visit social institutions such as the Lalla Amina Center for children deprived of family care, alongside facilities dedicated to women’s economic empowerment. The visit aims to encourage coordination among institutional, economic, and associative actors involved in social inclusion and gender equality.
Morocco currently ranks 137th out of 148 countries in the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Gender Gap Report, placing it second in the Maghreb and tenth in the Arab world. While the country has made notable strides in education and political representation, there is ongoing work to further enhance economic participation and health outcomes. By comparison, France holds the 35th position globally and ranks fourth among G7 countries.
