Spain: Moroccan migrant workers in Europe at the heart of a seminar

The seminar «Mobile Workers in Europe: Protections, Rights, and Representative Structures» took place from February 18 to 20 in Barcelona, Spain, casting a spotlight on the realities faced by migrant professionals. This event, organized by the European Center for Worker Issues (EZA Europe) and ACLI, brought together trade unions, associations, researchers, and institutions from various countries, including Morocco.

The Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad (CCME) was represented by its president, Driss El Yazami, who offered a comprehensive look at the «history of Moroccan migrations» and their «evolution». He also provided «an overview of the national institutional framework dedicated to Moroccans worldwide, along with insights into the missions and role of the CCME», according to a statement.

During the event, Driss El Yazami highlighted the «crucial role» of diaspora councils in «facilitating dialogue, supporting public policies, and strengthening ties between countries of origin and residence». He asserted that «any migration policy must rest on three pillars: the universal values of humanism, fraternity, and respect for fundamental rights, including equality», aligning with a human rights perspective.

The seminar further explored the «importance of migrant associations and diaspora representation systems in Europe». Emiliano Manfredonia, president of ACLI, expressed concern over the «growing security-focused rhetoric» on the continent and criticized the «overly restrictive orientation» of the new European Pact on Migration and Asylum (2024), which he argued undermines «effective solidarity between states and ambitious integration policies».

The seminar was organized in collaboration with Patronato ACLI, the Institute for Peace, Development and Innovation (IPSIA), the National Institute for Professional Training (ENAIP), the ACLI International Federation (FAI), and the National Youth Council of ACLI.