Professor Aawatif Hayar, a specialist in signal processing and telecommunications, has been a driving force in Moroccan social policy since her appointment as Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and Family in October 2021. She is as well the first Moroccan woman to earn an aggregation in electrical engineering from the École normale supérieure de Cachan in 1992.
Prior to entering government, Hayar distinguished herself in academic research and innovation, eventually leading to her presidency of Hassan II University of Casablanca. As minister, she has focused on streamlining access to social services, particularly for people with disabilities.
A key initiative under Hayar’s leadership is a new electronic platform launched in July 2024, designed to simplify the process of applying for and receiving disability cards. The platform reflects a broader strategy to reduce administrative hurdles, shorten wait times and ensure equitable treatment for all citizens.
Hayar’s approach centers on digitalization, supported by a new regulatory framework and a modernized system for evaluating disability. This includes guidelines for medical professionals and social workers, as well as local pilot programs involving those directly affected. This data-driven approach aims to establish clear criteria, harmonize practices, and objectively assess needs.
Another significant aspect of her tenure has been a push for integrated service delivery. A recent partnership agreement with the Ministry of Health will lead to the creation of integrated medical and social centers, recognizing that disability care requires a holistic approach encompassing medical treatment, social support, rehabilitation, and institutional coordination. Her focus on “Accessible Cities” further reinforces this concept, promoting accessibility as a prerequisite for full participation in public life.
Hayar’s GISSR strategy—focused on the economic empowerment of women, training opportunities, a more streamlined social safety net, and partnerships with regional and local stakeholders—serves as a guiding principle for her work. She has sought to transform the social state into a functional system, believing that a well-designed public service is a fundamental aspect of human dignity.
