Rabat – Morocco has achieved a noteworthy leap in the latest Human Development Index (HDI) released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), climbing three spots from 123rd to 120th place globally.
This improvement reflects the significant progress Morocco has made in education, healthcare, and economic development, all geared towards fostering a more inclusive society with equal opportunities, according to a press release by the country’s National Observatory for Human Development.
“This advancement represents a notable milestone,” the Observatory stated, emphasizing the rarity of such a jump. “It’s the first time in over a decade that Morocco has achieved such progress, improving its ranking by three places in a single instance.”
The UNDP report acknowledges Morocco’s efforts to bridge the gender gap, but also highlights the need for continued work. “We can do better,” the report states, “…particularly in facilitating women’s access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.”
While acknowledging Morocco’s achievements, the report emphasizes the importance of continued progress. Key areas for improvement include expanding access to education and healthcare, fostering economic integration, and tackling climate change.
Meanwhile, Morocco’s National Observatory for Human Development views this positive ranking as international recognition of Morocco’s social initiatives aligned with the Royal Vision.
These initiatives encompass healthcare and education reforms, widespread medical coverage, direct social assistance programs, and housing support, all implemented under Royal directives, it said.
Read also: Morocco Ranks 123rd in World Human Development Index
The Observatory notably commended the government’s commitment to implementing the Royal Guidelines, which it said prioritize the family as the foundation for social reform programs. This approach, the Observatory concluded, aims to safeguard society against economic and social vulnerabilities.
However, the UNDP report goes beyond individual countries and instead urges a global call to action.
Highlighting pressing issues like climate change, rising inequality, and ongoing conflicts, the report emphasizes the unprecedented knowledge and resources available to humanity and urges a shift towards sustainable and inclusive development.
“We have so many assets at hand!” the report declares. “In the annals of our species, our generation can boast unprecedented know-how. We know the global challenges and who will bear the brunt of the most serious consequences.”
While acknowledging international cooperation efforts like the grain agreement with Ukraine and advancements in COVID-19 vaccine production, the report underlines the need to address persistent inequalities and strengthen global governance structures.
The report concludes with a message of hope, citing examples of international cooperation that have yielded positive results.
