Madrid Hosts the First Major Forum on Spain–Maghreb Relations March 5, 2026 – Madrid

The Maghreb is one of the regions most closely tied to Spain’s strategic interests. Geographic proximity, deep historical and cultural links, trade exchanges, migration flows, energy supply, and shared security challenges make this relationship both structural and unavoidable. Yet despite its importance, it has rarely been addressed in the public sphere with the depth it deserves.

The I Spain–Maghreb Conference (JEM26), held on March 4–5 in Madrid and organized by The Political Room together with the Real Instituto Universitario de Estudios Europeos of CEU San Pablo University, marks a turning point. The event signals the beginning of a broader and more open debate on Spain’s southern neighborhood.

Breaking the Silence

For decades, discussion around the Maghreb has remained largely confined to a small circle of specialists. Journalists with extensive experience in the region highlighted the challenges of reporting on North Africa, pointing to editorial pressures, institutional constraints, and the risk of self-censorship. They also noted a historically limited public interest in Spain regarding developments across the Strait of Gibraltar—an attitude that now appears to be shifting.

A Necessary and Complex Relationship

Throughout the conference, speakers emphasized a central paradox: Spain and the Maghreb are deeply interconnected, yet there is little structured public debate on how to manage this relationship.

Countries such as Morocco and Algeria play key roles in migration management, energy supply, the fight against organized crime, and the stability of NATO’s southern flank. Ignoring these realities—or addressing them only during crises—was widely described as a strategic mistake.

Experts from diplomatic, journalistic, and academic backgrounds provided insights into regional governance, economic relations, defense dynamics, and the evolving geopolitical landscape. Particular attention was given to shifting international alignments, including the strengthening of ties between Washington, Rabat, and Tel Aviv, and their implications for regional balance.

A Multidisciplinary Approach

One of the defining features of JEM26 was its multidisciplinary nature. Panels covered maritime security, regional defense strategies, Sahel-Maghreb dynamics, and the political and media landscape in North Africa.

The conference underscored the need for collaboration across sectors—bringing together military experts, diplomats, economists, journalists, and academics—to fully understand the complexity of Spain–Maghreb relations.

Filling an Institutional Gap

JEM26 was created to address a clear institutional void: until now, Spain lacked a dedicated, stable forum focused specifically on its relationship with the Maghreb.

The strong public response to this first edition demonstrates both the demand for such a platform and the willingness of experts to engage openly. A series of closed-door workshops held on March 5 will contribute to a forthcoming strategic document on bilateral relations with Morocco and Algeria, as well as cooperation in key areas such as defense, economy, and security.

Looking Ahead

Spain and the Maghreb need each other. Their shared geography, history, and interests make cooperation not only inevitable but valuable.

However, as emphasized during the conference, meaningful partnerships require honesty, mutual understanding, and sustained dialogue.

JEM26 aims to become the space where that conversation can finally take place.