Preface
Mostapha Bousmina*
Multilingualism is one of the major pillars that underpin our University’s vision ; it is with deep satisfaction that we launch this journal, the International Journal of European, Mediterranean and African Studies, in the language of Shakespeare. Under this title, it is evident that its role is framed within a dual perspective. It is meant on one hand, to develop reflections that are both diverse and profound, enabling a relevant understanding of the crucial issues faced by the Afro-European and Mediterranean regions. On the other hand, the goal is to foster innovative approaches that help envision possible paths for a shared future. Critical analysis and action research thus characterize the scientific and academic orientation adopted by its editorial board.
Consequently, this journal is intended not only for researchers and academics, but also for leaders and policymakers across various sectors of economics, the social sphere, and politics. Its purpose is to provide them with the necessary tools to understand the factors that either hinder or accelerate the dynamics of relations between the north and south of the Mediterranean region. Such an approach is all the more necessary at the present time since various stereotypes often shape these relations, sometimes regrettably, in the most negative ways.
Our region deserves better. It is crucial to reassess it beyond commonplace notions that lead to blindness and unproductive misunderstandings. Crossing disciplinary boundaries is essential to accurately shed light on its complexities.
In the framework of this volume, and those to come, the International Journal of European, Mediterranean and African Studies is committed to offering its readers a diverse range of topics. These serve as benchmarks for navigating global transformations driven, among other factors, by the cultural and civilizational issues of our time, the complex challenges of climate change, pressing issues of migration and human rights, health challenges highlighted by emerging epidemics, persistent issues of gender equality, power dynamics between great powers and countries asserting their sovereignty, and more.
By prioritizing these topics, the International Journal of European, Mediterranean and African Studies endeavors to cultivate a dialogue space driven by equitable intentions and intellects. This initiative seeks to cultivate conditions conducive to authentic co-development in our region, free from dogmatic constraints.
Indeed, it is undoubtedly now time to move beyond reliance on a makeshift economy that will inevitably lead to a dead end, and instead seek ambitious, unifying projects that will redefine the Mediterranean and its environment through new methodologies. Isn’t this the ambitious initiative that our youth expects from us in these times of drift and uncertainty?
*President of the Euromed University of Fes, UEMF, Morocco.
