The Maghreb States, the Arab Israeli Conflict and the
Peace Process
Dr. Claire Spencer

The Maghreb’s Role in the Peace Process

The role of the Maghrebi states has stagnated due to the current impasse in the peace process. Previously, the states were active in the process, especially in the multilateral talks. There has also been much engagement on the bilateral level, although progress has been slow. Morocco has been taking a hard stance recently, but whilst always keeping its doors open.

The most interesting development in the roles is the establishment of business links. Normalization has been seen as essential because of the economic benefits of peace, namely open markets and increased integration. Such integration will not continue if the bilateral process fails, but Morocco and Tunisia already have representatives in Tel Aviv and Mauritania is opening a bureau.

Tunisia is more in the Palestinian camp. It was Tunisia that housed the PLO after its exodus from Beirut: remember, the PLO was attacked by Israel whilst in Tunisia.

Barcelona Process

The Barcelona process represents the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership Initiative, which involves 12 countries. Several countries have been invited to join the Union, such as Mauritania, Jordan (because of the peace process), Syria and Lebanon, and each has been offered different levels of integration. The PNA is involved, but not on a state level (Barcelona did not give the Palestinian issue any priority). The overall aim is a regional trade area, which could receive more financial assistance (from North Europe). The region would see more cultural and social exchange, as well as a common agricultural policy.

A lack of progress in the peace process would greatly damage the Barcelona process. In the case of the Maghrebi states, many fear that if they go too far in their normalization with Israel, they will face popular resentment. In the case of the European countries, while they want this economic process, they are also concerned about migration from North Africa to Europe.

Discussion:

Question: What is the Palestinian position on the Barcelona process?

Answer: The Palestinians are not equal partners. The Palestinians have no state, and, this being the case, do not expect much. They cannot talk about free trade when their exports are being held up in Gaza.

Question: What is the French link?

Answer: While France has an influence on the Maghreb, it is driven by its interests. The French have to take into account Europe, the US, and the Arabs states. In the case of the Algerians, they are interested in an improved European relationship, as opposed to one with Iran, Hamas, or any other Islamist organization.