Maghreb Roundtable: Morocco's Deradicalization Strategy

Governments in the Middle East and North Africa must help foster an authentic, moderate religious discourse that will offer a viable and appealing alternative to extremist ideas, according to Dr. Ahmed Abaddi. Abaddi is the secretary general of the Rabita Mohammedia des Oulemas (Mohammadan League of Islamic Scholars), a council established by King Mohammed VI.

Abaddi argued that religious views cannot be controlled through a top-down, authoritarian approach. Instead, innovative educational strategies, engagement with youth through media, and a commitment to the principles of human rights are the best ways to deconstruct and counter extremist discourse. Abaddi outlined his vision and the steps Morocco has taken to foster an alternative religious discourse at a Maghreb Roundtable entitled “Morocco’s Deradicalization Strategy” at CSIS on June 24, 2013.