The Broken Dream of the “Greater Maghreb”: A Vision Sabotaged

For decades, the concept of a united and flourishing Greater Maghreb has inspired advocates of regional integration across North Africa. With its vast natural resources, rich cultural heritage, and a population brimming with potential, this region could have stood as a global economic powerhouse. Unfortunately, this grand vision has been relentlessly obstructed by the Algerian military regime, entrenched in outdated ideologies and antagonistic policies.
A People’s Dream of Unity and Prosperity
The Greater Maghreb—comprising Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania—is home to over 120 million people. If united, the region could achieve:

1. Efficient resource utilization: Capitalizing on Algeria and Libya’s oil and gas, Morocco’s phosphates, and fertile agricultural lands in Tunisia and Mauritania.
2. A seamless common market: Removing trade barriers to foster intra-Maghreb commerce and economic growth.
3. Increased foreign investment: Attracted by political stability and coordinated economic policies.

Sabotage from Within: The Role of the Algerian Military Regime

Despite the transformative potential of this union, it has been derailed by one primary actor: the Algerian military junta. By fostering hostility, particularly toward Morocco, it has turned manageable political issues into insurmountable roadblocks to regional cooperation.
The Sahara Conflict
The Algerian regime has funneled billions into supporting and arming the Polisario Front, exacerbating a fabricated territorial dispute. Rather than pursuing diplomacy or fostering dialogue, the junta prioritizes an unproductive status quo that undermines regional stability and integration.
Closed Borders, Closed Futures
The closure of land borders between Morocco and Algeria since 1994—later extended to air and sea routes—epitomizes the regime’s divisive agenda. This isolationist policy disrupts trade, separates families, and stifles economic development on both sides.
An Economy Hijacked by Obsession
The Algerian military regime, ruling through repression, has turned Algeria into a hydrocarbon-dependent economy. Instead of investing in economic diversification or regional collaboration, it squanders resources on maintaining authoritarian control and pursuing a fruitless diplomatic rivalry with Morocco.
Why Fear the “Greater Maghreb”?
The junta’s resistance to regional integration stems from its fear of exposure and change:

1. Economic openness: A united Maghreb would highlight Algeria’s inefficiencies compared to Morocco’s dynamic and diversified economy.
2. Free exchange of ideas: A regional union could challenge the propaganda and authoritarian grip sustaining the regime.
3. Shared governance: The junta fears losing its monopoly on decision-making to a united regional force.

The High Cost of Division

The stagnation of the Greater Maghreb affects not only the region but also Africa and the global community. A unified Maghreb could stabilize North Africa and the Sahel, regions critical to combating terrorism and managing migration.
The economic losses are equally staggering. While Morocco builds influential partnerships in sub-Saharan Africa, Algeria remains isolated, squandering its energy potential under an outdated leadership.
A Call for Change
The people of the Maghreb must reject the divisions imposed by an exhausted regime. Algerian leaders must understand that their hostility benefits no one and obstructs the aspirations of future generations.
A united Greater Maghreb is not just a dream but a necessity. Its realization requires breaking the barriers erected by a military regime that prioritizes its survival over its people’s future.
History Will Remember
History will not be kind to the Algerian junta, whose self-serving actions have stalled the rise of the Greater Maghreb. The region’s immense potential remains trapped by the shortsightedness of a militaristic elite.
Morocco continues to advocate for regional integration, upholding the principles of cooperation and shared prosperity. Ultimately, the choice lies with the Algerian people: to remain isolated by their rulers or to embrace the opportunities of a united Maghreb.
The future is still theirs to shape.