At the heart of Fondation Orient-Occident's mission is a commitment to social justice, human dignity, and inclusive development. For nearly three decades, the Foundation has been a pioneering force in the fields of migration, community empowerment, and intercultural dialogue—supporting vulnerable populations through education, vocational training, psychosocial assistance, and cultural initiatives. Whether in urban centers or remote communities, the Foundation works to create spaces of solidarity, opportunity, and coexistence.
The Fondation Orient-Occident has developed strong expertise in community development through partnerships with countries such as Paraguay, India, and Senegal, drawing inspiration from international examples in other developing regions. Inspired by the holistic model of Tostan International in Senegal, the Foundation adopts a people-centered, integrated approach that addresses local needs across multiple sectors—such as water, hygiene, education, health, and employment—through participatory diagnosis and the co-creation of sustainable action plans.
Internationally recognized for its innovative approach, the Fondation plays a leading role in advocacy, raising awareness on migration and human rights. As an active participant in the World Economic Forum and global platforms, it brings field experience into high-level discussions, helping shape more humane and sustainable migration policies. Through its wide-reaching work, the Foundation continues to build bridges between people, cultures, and continents.
With decades of experience in the field, the Fondation Orient-Occident plays a leading role in migration and refugee integration in Morocco. Through its advocacy and community work, it has helped influence national migration policies and raise awareness around migrant rights. In collaboration with national and international partners, the Foundation offers psychosocial support, education, professional training, and cultural initiatives, with special attention to vulnerable groups. It also promotes awareness of the risks of irregular migration and supports reintegration efforts for returning migrants.
Interculturarity
Fondation Orient-Occident has long embraced an innovative vision, especially in culture and art, viewing them as universal languages that foster dialogue and unity. Internationally recognized for its unique intercultural approach to migration, the Foundation has launched several landmark initiatives: the creation of the Rabat Intercultural Center in 1998—the first of its kind in Africa; the Rabat Africa Festival, now in its 17th edition, promoting diversity and inclusion through the arts; Migrants du Monde, a women-led embroidery and sewing atelier; and F-Radio, a platform giving voice to migrants and refugees. Through these initiatives, the Foundation continues to break barriers, build bridges, and transform diversity into a force for social change.
International Advocacy Work
In 2016, Yasmina Filali, President and Founder of Fondation Orient-Occident, was honored with the "Social Entrepreneur of the Year" award by the Schwab Foundation in partnership with the World Economic Forum—recognition of her visionary leadership in addressing migration and human rights through intercultural engagement. This milestone marked a turning point for the Foundation, highlighting its innovative work in supporting migrants and refugees across Africa and the MENA region. That same year, Filali was appointed to the Global Future Council on Migration in Dubai (2016–2018), further reinforcing her role as a thought leader in shaping international migration policies.
Since then, Fondation Orient-Occident has taken an increasingly active role on the global stage. By participating in World Economic Forum meetings and other major international gatherings, the Foundation continues to share its field experience, influence global discourse, and build strategic alliances. Through this growing international presence, it promotes inclusive dialogue and practical solutions, reinforcing its mission to transform diversity into a source of strength, opportunity, and shared progress.