Morocco-Algeria Rivalry Reshapes Europe's North Africa Policy

The rivalry between Morocco and Algeria is increasingly shaping the policies of European governments in the Maghreb, particularly concerning Western Sahara. Morocco considers support for its sovereignty claim over the territory a central test of foreign partnerships, while Algiers backs the Polisario Front's demand for independence.

This month, three high-level visits within six days highlighted this trend: French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu visited Morocco, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune met with Germany, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez arrived in Algiers. These visits underscore how European nations must balance relationships with both countries, given their respective leverage in energy, migration, and security.

France provides a clear example, where its backing of Morocco on Western Sahara has led to a broader strategic partnership with Rabat, while straining relations with Algeria. Spain, which made a similar choice in 2022, is now attempting to repair ties with Algeria while maintaining its rapprochement with Morocco. Algeria, in turn, is widening its European partnerships, such as with Germany, to diversify beyond France. According to Al Jazeera, Morocco and Algeria have become increasingly effective at making European governments organize their North African policies around this rivalry.