Organized by Morocco World News in partnership with Columbia University.
Columbia University, New York City (United States of America), 15 November 2011.
1. Background and Justification
With political reform and fundamental change in the centrality of the monarchy and the previous status quo, Morocco is in the process of laying down the foundations for future governance.
The king proposed constitutional changes in response to the country's February 20 movement that has been holding regular protests to demand a parliamentary monarchy in the kingdom. Moroccans overwhelmingly voted to adopt constitutional reforms that would reduce the king's power and prerogatives.
The new Constitution promotes democracy, modernization and enhanced civil rights. The proposed changes could have substantial impact on Morocco's future socio-economic and political development, its citizens, as well as the nation's role within the Arab World and the international community.
Following the referendum on constitutional reforms on July 1st, 2011, Morocco will hold parliamentary elections on 25 November 2011 where for the first time, an elected parliament will be granted power and legislative authority.
The elections were earlier expected in late 2012, but Morocco's King Mohammed VI called for a prompt vote, allowing the country to create a new government.
Implementation of the constitutional changes and the election of a new parliament is only the first step towards establishing a more democratic society. Numerous challenges are awaiting the new government and tangible outcomes on the ground must be implemented in order to respond to the people's hope and expectations.
2. Objectives:
The general objective of the 'Seminar' is to increase awareness about the current events as well as upcoming elections in Morocco.
Specific objectives are, through a panel with experts on the topic:
• Address the current political and socio-economic status in Morocco including the significant events that have led to the upcoming elections.
• Examine challenges and obstacles that the new parliament will face.
• Focus on the New Constitution and the upcoming elections as agents of national development and modernization.
• Discuss what the New Constitution and reformed status quo will and can mean for Morocco.
• Discuss the future prospects of Morocco and its people.
• Discuss the extent to which Moroccan political elite is ready to take up the challenge and move their country towards a genuine democracy away from corruption, lack of accountability and cronyism.
• The impact of voters turnout on the credibility of the elections and the overall reform process.
3. Date and Venue:
The event is proposed to take place at the Columbia University in the City of New York, United States of America, on Tuesday, November15 2011.
4. Modalities and Format:
The length of the event will be 3 hours and will be held during the evening to allow more people to attend.
The event shall include a diverse panel of 6 to 8 prominent experts in the field. The panel discussion shall include speeches by each of the panelists, followed by a discussion where any uncovered issues can be raised and discussed, and where event participants are invited to raise issues and ask questions.
Panelists:
• 1. Youness Abouyoub, Columbia University
• 2. Anouar Majid, University of Main.
• 3. Anouar Boukhars, University of Maryland.
• 4.Brahim El Guabli, University of Pennsylvania
5. Conference Organizers:
The event is promoted and organized by Morocco World News in collaboration with Columbia University. Columbia University will host the event.
6. Participants and Observers:
Participants in the event will be United Nations officials, professionals in the political science and international relations field, civil society organizations, students and interested members of the general public.
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