Morocco’s youth protests, a wake-up call for more inclusive policies

The Moroccan government is facing one of its most serious challenges in recent years,as youth-led protests erupt across the country. Sparked by frustration over unequal access to public services,the demonstrations have escalated into violent clashes in marginalized regions that have long been left behind by the rapid development seen in major urban centers.

At the heart of the unrest is a generation demanding better schools,hospitals,and opportunities. The fact that young people—especially Gen Z—took to the streets underscores the failure of political parties to engage this demographic segment. Often viewed as elitist and clientelist,these parties have struggled to attract voters under 24,whose participation in elections remains strikingly low.

Youth unemployment paints a grim picture: 35% overall,and 19% among university graduates. These figures reflect deep-rooted frustration and the inadequacy of current public policies.

The protests gained momentum following the deaths of several pregnant women in Agadir last month,highlighting the dire state of healthcare in underserved areas. In a striking example of digital mobilization,Gen Z organizers coordinated through the gaming app Discord—bypassing traditional political channels they view with distrust.

For three days,the government remained silent as demonstrators defied protest bans. It wasn’t until riots turned deadly that officials responded. In Lqliaa,a densely populated area in the Inzegane-Aït Melloul province,three people were killed by live ammunition while attempting to storm a Royal Gendarmerie headquarters. According to Agadir’s prosecutor,protesters set fire to part of the building,injured five officers,and resisted tear gas and warning shots—spreading panic among nearby families.

Despite Gen Z protesters insisting their movement is peaceful,the lack of identifiable leadership has complicated efforts to initiate dialogue. They have issued a document demanding the government’s resignation,a crackdown on corruption,and improved public services.

The movement has ignited a nationwide debate among media,political parties,and civil society organizations about the urgent need for youth-inclusive policies. More than just a protest,it has become a wake-up call for Morocco’s political class to deliver on promises and address the stark inequalities between regions.