Tribute to

Claudia Barona Castañeda (1960–2024) — Honorary President
Claudia Barona Castañeda was a professor and researcher in the Department of International Relations and Political Science at the Universidad de las Américas Puebla in Mexico. A trained historian, she was the foremost expert on the Moroccan Sahara in the Spanish-speaking world, dedicating over 35 years to research on this topic. She was also a leading authority on social movements in Latin America. As former Vice President of NejMaroc, she made invaluable contributions to the center's academic mission. In recognition of her distinguished career and lasting impact, NejMaroc posthumously awarded her the title of Honorary President. The research center and the broader academic community mourn her loss and extend deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. Her legacy endures in the scholarship and institution she helped build.