Language and Identity in Morocco:

The Paradoxical Role of French and the Challenges

of Preserving Arabic and Moroccan Culture
By M. Omar Bennouna
 PREAMBLE

Morocco, as a country located at the crossroads of different civilizations, has a complex and
diverse linguistic landscape that reflects its rich history and cultural heritage. With French
being a co-official language and widely used in business, education, and government,
Morocco is facing a paradoxical situation in which French is both rejected and embraced by
different segments of society.

The adoption of foreign languages, particularly French, has sparked a growing sense of
aversion among some Moroccans, who view it as a language of oppression and a way of
controlling the Moroccan people many years after the end of colonialism. At the same time,
proficiency in French is often seen as a marker of social status and upward mobility, creating
a cultural and linguistic polarization that further divides the country along social and
economic lines.

Here we will explore the implications of this situation from a sociological perspective,
examining how it affects the preservation of Moroccan culture and identity, as well as the
potential opportunities and challenges that could arise from a shift towards the adoption of
English as a second language. We will also discuss the importance of ensuring that
disadvantaged regions have access to quality multi-lingual education to prevent further
polarization and promote social and economic equity in Morocco.

1
 HISTORICAL FRAMEWORK

France's colonial history in Africa and other parts of the world was marked by a strategy of
establishing deep roots in the societies they colonized. France's colonial project was
designed to not only exploit the resources of the colonized regions but also to create a
dependence on France that would ensure its continued control over these territories long
after the end of formal colonization. To achieve this, France imposed its language,
governance system, education system, and other aspects of its culture on its colonies.

In particular, France strategically imposed the French language as the language of

administration, education, and commerce in its colonies. This ensured that the elites in the
colonies were French-educated and could only communicate effectively with France, making
it easier for France to maintain its influence over them. This created a situation where
proficiency in the French language became a marker of social status and upward mobility in
the colonies, further entrenching the dominance of the language.

Additionally, France's governance system in its colonies was designed to serve French
interests. France appointed its own governors, administrators, and officials to manage the
colonies, ensuring that they would always serve French interests. France also established a
system of indirect rule, which allowed it to rule through local leaders who were dependent on
France for their power and authority.

Finally, France's education system in its colonies was designed to produce French-educated
elites who would continue to serve French interests long after the end of formal colonization.
This education system focused on French culture and history, with little attention paid to local
languages and cultures. This ensured that the elites in the colonies were more French than
African, further entrenching French influence in these territories.

All these strategies ensured that France maintained a significant geopolitical and economic
advantage in its ex-colonies long after the end of formal colonization. France's legacy can
still be seen today in many of its ex-colonies, including Morocco, where the French
language, governance system, and education system continue to shape the country's
politics, society, and culture.

2
 INTRODUCTION

In this discussion, we will analyze the complexities and challenges of adopting a foreign
language as a co-official language, as is the case in Morocco with the French language. We
will highlight the advantages that could come from adopting English as a second official
language, including improved access to global business, education, and research
opportunities.

However, we will also point out the potential risks of this adoption, including the erosion of
local dialects and the cultural identity of the country. We will discuss how the widespread
adoption of French has resulted in cultural and linguistic polarization in Morocco, as well as
the difficulties in preserving the official language and cultural identity of a country by adopting
a foreign language. Additionally, we will highlight how the adoption of a foreign language can
create access barriers to certain social positions, including politics.

Finally, we will emphasize the importance of ensuring that adopting a foreign language does
not lead to the loss of cultural heritage, including classical Arabic and its use in religious
contexts. Overall, the adoption of a foreign language as a co-official language poses both
benefits and risks, and any adoption must be implemented thoughtfully and with a clear
understanding of its impact on the country's culture, identity, and society.

3
Psychology suggests that a polyglot society can have several benefits for individuals. Firstly,
knowing multiple languages can improve cognitive function, such as better memory,
attention, and problem-solving skills. Multilingual individuals have also been shown to have
better overall mental flexibility and creativity. Being able to communicate in multiple
languages also increases one's ability to understand and appreciate different cultures and
perspectives, which can lead to greater empathy and tolerance towards others. Additionally,
being bilingual or multilingual can also have economic benefits, as it can lead to greater job
opportunities and higher salaries. Overall, a polyglot society can lead to more open-minded,
creative, and successful individuals.

But from a sociological perspective, a polyglot society can be both an advantage and a
disadvantage. On one hand, a polyglot society can promote cultural diversity and enhance
cross-cultural understanding, which can help to build a more tolerant and accepting society.
When people are exposed to different languages and cultures, they become more
empathetic and open-minded, which can foster social cohesion and promote a sense of
belonging. In this sense, a polyglot society can help to reduce social inequalities and create
a more harmonious society.

However, on the other hand, a polyglot society can also lead to social inequalities and
polarization. When certain groups have greater access to language education and
opportunities to learn multiple languages, it can create a linguistic and cultural divide
between those who are multilingual and those who are not. This can further exacerbate
existing social inequalities, such as access to education and employment opportunities. In
some cases, it can even lead to discrimination and marginalization of those who do not
speak the dominant language(s) in a society.

The current situation in Morocco regarding the French language and its influence is complex
and multi-faceted. On the one hand, there is a growing sentiment of aversion towards
French due to its historical association with colonialism and oppression. This sentiment has
been further fueled by the continued use of French in public administration and education,
perpetuating a sense of cultural domination by the former colonizer.

The continued importance of French in many sectors of Moroccan society has contributed to
the existing social and economic divisions in the country, particularly between those who are
fluent in French and those who are not. There are already significant differences in language
use and proficiency across different regions and socio-economic groups in Morocco, with
some areas and communities speaking predominantly local dialects or Arabic, while others
have a stronger presence of Spanish or French.

For those in the main cities where French is dominant, proficiency in the language can be a
marker of social status and upward mobility. This creates a divide between those who are
fluent in French and those who are not, perpetuating existing economic and social
inequalities. The importance of French in government and business also means that those
who lack proficiency in the language may face significant barriers to accessing certain job
opportunities or advancing in their careers.

4
At the same time, the rejection of French by some segments of Moroccan society can also
contribute to the further entrenchment of social divisions. Those who reject French as a
language associated with colonialism and oppression may distance themselves from those
who see French as a pathway to success and social mobility. This can create a sense of
cultural and linguistic polarization that further divides the country along social and economic
lines.

The sense of cultural and linguistic polarization that can arise from the rejection of French
and other foreign languages in Morocco has the potential to further divide the country along
social and economic lines. This polarization can create a sense of cultural and linguistic
superiority among those who reject these languages, leading to stigmatization of those who
do not speak the local dialect or Arabic.

To address these challenges and avoid further polarization, the Moroccan government needs
to prioritize the provision of quality multilingual education for all citizens, especially those in
disadvantaged regions. This means investing in language education programs that support
the learning of both local dialects and Arabic, as well as foreign languages such as English,
Spanish or French.

By providing the tools and systems for quality multilingual education, the government can
help to ensure that all Moroccans have equal access to opportunities for success and social
mobility, regardless of their linguistic background or regional location. This can help to break
down existing social and economic barriers that may prevent certain groups from advancing
in their careers or accessing certain job opportunities.

Moreover, by providing quality multilingual education, the government can also foster greater
cultural and linguistic understanding and appreciation across different regions and
communities in Morocco. This can help to reduce the sense of cultural and linguistic
polarization that may arise from rejection of certain languages or dialects.

So to avoid further polarization and division in Morocco, the government needs to prioritize
the provision of quality multilingual education for all citizens. This can help to ensure that all
Moroccans have equal access to opportunities for success and social mobility, regardless of
their linguistic background or regional location, while also fostering greater cultural and
linguistic understanding and appreciation across different regions and communities in the
country. By addressing social inequalities and promoting language diversity, a polyglot
society can become a source of strength and social cohesion, rather than a cause of division
and polarization.

If English were to become a dominant second language in Morocco, it could exacerbate

these existing divisions. Those who are already proficient in French may have an advantage
in learning English, while those who lack proficiency in French may face additional
challenges in learning yet another foreign language. Additionally, those who lack access to
quality education or resources may struggle to learn English, creating further disparities in
language proficiency and opportunities.

5
The continued importance of French in many sectors of Moroccan society contributes to
existing social and economic divisions in the country. While the adoption of English as a
second language could offer new opportunities and possibilities, it could also exacerbate
these existing divisions and create new barriers to social and economic mobility for those
who lack proficiency in the language. To address these challenges, any language policy in
Morocco will need to be carefully considered and implemented in a way that is inclusive and
accessible for all.

If the most probable scenario of the end of French influence in Morocco were to come to
pass, it is likely that English would emerge as a leading second language. This would
undoubtedly have significant implications for the country, both positive and negative.

On the positive side, adopting English as a second language could open up a new world of
possibilities for Moroccans, particularly in terms of communication and access to
international resources. English is the lingua franca of the modern world, and proficiency in
the language is essential for success in many fields, from business to academia to
international diplomacy. By embracing English, Moroccans could position themselves to
better compete on the global stage and expand their horizons in ways that were previously
impossible.

Adopting English as the second official language in Morocco could bring many advantages
to the country. Firstly, it could greatly improve the quality of education in the country. English
is a language that is widely used in the academic world, and by adopting it as a second
language, Moroccan students could gain access to a wider range of resources and
knowledge. Moreover, it could also facilitate communication between Moroccan students and
their peers from other countries, increasing their global understanding and cultural
awareness.

Secondly, adopting English as a second language could greatly enhance international

business opportunities in Morocco. As English is the lingua franca of the global business
world, proficiency in the language would allow Moroccans to conduct business more
effectively with international partners, opening up new markets and increasing economic
growth. By adopting English as a second official language, Moroccans would be able to
communicate more effectively with international partners, reducing the potential for
misunderstandings that could arise from linguistic and cultural barriers. A common language
can facilitate negotiations and ensure that both parties are on the same page, which is
essential for the success of any international business venture.

Thirdly, adopting English as a second official language could improve global communication
in all areas, including diplomacy, international relations, and cultural exchange. This could
increase Morocco's standing in the global community and facilitate greater cooperation with
other nations on a variety of issues.

6
Fourthly, English is the primary language used in many fields, such as science, technology,
and research. These are critical areas for economic growth and development. By having a
better command of English, Moroccans would have better access to information, research,
and development opportunities in these fields, enabling them to compete on a global scale.
This would not only benefit individuals but also have a positive impact on the country's
economy as a whole.

In conclusion, adopting English as a second official language in Morocco could bring many
advantages to the country, ranging from improved education and business opportunities to
enhanced global communication and access to information in various fields. However, it is
important to ensure that the adoption of a foreign language does not lead to the erosion of
Morocco's official language and cultural identity. Proper language policies and education
programs can help to ensure that both the official language and the foreign language are
preserved and valued in Moroccan society.

At the same time, the adoption of foreign languages in Morocco, such as French or English,
could have negative implications for the preservation of Moroccan culture and identity. One
of the main concerns is that the widespread adoption of these languages could lead to the
erosion of the use and appreciation of Moroccan Arabic and other local dialects.

Adopting a foreign language as a co-official language can have both positive and negative
implications for a country's cultural identity and linguistic diversity. While it can provide
opportunities for better communication, access to global resources and economic growth, it
can also pose significant challenges for preserving the country's official language and
cultural heritage.

To overcome these challenges, governments can focus on promoting and investing in

multilingual education that prioritizes the official language while also offering foreign
language learning opportunities. This will ensure that individuals have access to quality
education and can develop proficiency in multiple languages while retaining their cultural
identity.

The adoption of a foreign language as a co-official language can create several challenges
for preserving the official language and cultural identity. However, with effective language
policies and planning, countries can overcome these difficulties and ensure the equitable
use and promotion of both languages.

The use of French language in Morocco, for example, has already had significant impacts on
the use of Moroccan Arabic and other local dialects. The influence of French language and
culture has led to the adoption of many French words and phrases into Moroccan Arabic,
which has changed the way the dialect is spoken and understood. Additionally, the use of
French language in education and business has made it increasingly difficult for Moroccan
Arabic to be seen as a valid or important language for success and social mobility.

7
Furthermore, the adoption of foreign languages could lead to the erosion of classical Arabic.
While classical Arabic remains an important language for formal and academic settings, it is
not widely spoken in everyday life. The erosion of classical Arabic and the segmentation of
Moroccan Darija into different dialects across regions creates a disconnection from the
country's origins and the official language that should be driving the country.

The limited use of Classical Arabic in everyday life in Morocco is a significant challenge for
many Moroccans, particularly those who do not have access to formal education or are living
in rural areas. While Classical Arabic remains an important language for formal and
academic settings, it is often seen as an elitist language that serves as a barrier to accessing
certain social positions, such as in politics or other high-level professions.

This can limit the opportunities for social and economic mobility for many Moroccans who do
not have access to formal education or are living in rural areas where Classical Arabic is not
widely spoken. It can also limit the ability of many Moroccans to fully participate in the
broader Arab world, which is connected by the shared language of Classical Arabic.

Same as for the widespread use of French in Moroccan society can further compound these
issues by creating an additional language barrier for those who do not have access to
French-language education or social circles. French is often seen as a marker of social
status and upward mobility, and proficiency in French can be a significant advantage in
many sectors of Moroccan society, particularly in business and government.

To address these challenges, it is important for the Moroccan government to invest in

programs and resources that promote the use of local languages and Classical Arabic in
everyday life. This could include initiatives to promote the use of local dialects in schools and
communities, as well as efforts to increase access to formal education and training in
Classical Arabic. It is also important for the government to address the issue of language
barriers in politics and other high-level professions, and to work to ensure that access to
these positions is not limited by language or other social barriers. Ultimately, addressing
these challenges will be critical to ensuring that all Moroccans have the opportunity to
participate fully in the country's political, social, and economic life.

The erosion of local dialects and classical Arabic could have significant impacts on
Moroccan culture and identity. The loss of these languages could lead to the loss of
traditional cultural practices, literature, and history. Indeed, the lack of widespread use of
classical Arabic in Morocco could also create a significant barrier in understanding the Quran
and connecting with the broader Islamic world. As a predominantly Muslim country, Morocco
has a strong connection to classical Arabic as the language of the Quran and Islamic
scholarship. However, if the language is not used widely and is limited to academic and
formal settings, it can lead to a sense of disconnection and hinder the ability of Moroccans to
connect with other Arab-speaking Muslim communities and fully engage with the Islamic
faith. This could lead to a sense of cultural isolation and create further divisions within
Moroccan society.

8
While the adoption of foreign languages such as French or English could offer opportunities
for increased communication and success in certain sectors, it is important to consider the
negative implications for the preservation of Moroccan culture and identity. The erosion of
local dialects and classical Arabic could have significant impacts on Moroccan society and
history. Therefore, it is important to find a balance between the adoption of foreign
languages and the preservation of local languages and cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the situation regarding language in Morocco is complex and multifaceted, and
any potential shift away from French and towards English would have significant implications
for the country. While the adoption of English could open up new opportunities and
possibilities, it could also have negative consequences for the preservation of local culture
and the perpetuation of existing social hierarchies. Ultimately, the path forward will require
careful consideration and a nuanced approach that takes into account the many competing
interests and perspectives at play.

In conclusion, the protection of the cultural and linguistic heritage of Morocco is crucial for
the preservation of its identity and diversity. Therefore, the government of Morocco should
make efforts to ensure the success of the country in both aspects.

First, it should prioritize the promotion and widespread use of classical Arabic as the official
language of the country, while also encouraging its use as a common spoken language
among Moroccans. This would help preserve the country's unique cultural identity and
heritage, which are embodied in the language.

Second, the government should consider adopting a second language, such as English, to
provide Moroccans with the necessary tools to engage with the global community and
benefit from the advantages that come with it. However, this should be done without letting
the second language overshadow or replace classical Arabic as the primary language of the
country.

To achieve this, the government should invest in a quality multilingual education system that
ensures equitable access to language learning opportunities for all Moroccans, regardless of
their social and economic backgrounds. In this way, Morocco can balance the preservation
of its cultural and linguistic heritage with the adoption of a second language that will enhance
its economic and social development, while also promoting equity and inclusivity for all its
citizens.