Return Migration of Highly Skilled Scientists and Engineers to Morocco: Return or Circulation?

Abstract

The qualification level of the emigrating Moroccans rose steadily in the 1990s, and especially since the year 2000. At present, an estimated 20 per cent of the highly qualified Moroccans live abroad. Student migration, which accounts for a large part of this 20 per cent, is contributing substantially to keeping this level high. For the last 20 years Morocco has been testing actions to mobilise and reconnect its S&T diaspora. The related special programmes and institutions are discussed and analysed in this article. Results are mixed, especially if measured against the original goals and the high expectations of the MREs (Marocains Résidant à l’Etranger: Moroccans living abroad). In response to these weaknesses and criticisms, proposals for institutional reorganisation and programme revisions have recently been put forth, or tested, but it is too early to evaluate the outcome. Interviews conducted in Morocco and in Europe with scientists who returned to their country or were part of the diaspora living in Europe indicate a very strong desire to participate in the development of Morocco, but also highlight inhibiting factors inherent in the public higher education and research. The international mobility of the interviewees was a constant but not all thought that Morocco would be their final landing place. Many of them are the forerunners in a new type of mobility system that will contribute (together with the reform measures that Morocco will have to adopt) to making the Moroccan national research system attract Moroccan and foreign scientists for all or part of their professional career.