Rabat Celebrates Its Designation as UNESCO's Global Capital of Literature
On April 24, 2023, Rabat officially launched its program to celebrate its recent designation as the UNESCO Global Capital of Literature for 2026. This announcement was made in conjunction with the 31st edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL), scheduled to take place from May 1 to May 10, 2026, featuring an impressive lineup of 342 activities. The theme of this year's fair, "Rabat se livre," translates to "Rabat Gives Itself to Literature," reflecting the city's vibrant cultural scene and its commitment to promoting reading and knowledge dissemination.
The honor bestowed upon Rabat is a significant acknowledgment of its rich historical narrative and ongoing dedication to cultural development. During the official launch, Mehdi Bensaïd, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, emphasized the importance of this event in fostering a culture of reading and knowledge-sharing. He characterized this recognition as a "proclamation of the triumph of knowledge," positioning Rabat as a pivotal hub for cultural exchange and intellectual growth.
A Diverse Program of Events and Cultural Exchange
The SIEL is one of Africa's premier literary events, drawing participation from over 890 exhibitors, including 320 direct and 570 indirect representatives from 60 countries, showcasing more than 130,000 titles. France has been designated as the guest of honor at this edition, which also pays tribute to the renowned 14th-century Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta, thereby placing travel literature at the forefront of discussions and events. This year’s fair promises a rich cultural program, comprising over 204 events that will bring together 720 thinkers and creators to explore contemporary reading challenges and the ongoing evolution of cultural and creative industries.
In collaboration with national partners and UNESCO, the ministry has crafted a comprehensive annual program that aims to engage citizens beyond traditional literary settings. This includes outreach initiatives in hospitals, reform centers, orphanages, public squares, and public transportation, showcasing the commitment to making literature accessible to all demographics, regardless of age or social background.
As the 26th city to hold the title of Global Capital of Literature since its inception in 2001, Rabat follows a distinguished lineage of cultural capitals, including Madrid, Alexandria, and New Delhi. The UNESCO advisory committee, which includes representatives from various international literary and library associations, will continue to support Rabat in its mission to promote literature and reading both nationally and beyond.
As reported by lopinion.ma.
