Moroccan Youth Protest Against World Cup Spending, Demand Change

Demonstrations have erupted across Morocco for the fourth consecutive night as young protesters voice their frustration over government spending priorities. With billions allocated for the preparations for the 2030 World Cup, many young Moroccans are demanding better investments in critical social services such as education and healthcare. Reports from both human rights groups and local media indicate escalating violence and clashes between protesters and security forces in several cities.

The protests began in response to the apparent neglect of Morocco’s strained schools and hospitals, with demonstrators expressing their anger through significant street rallies. Eyewitness accounts and videos shared on social media show scenes of unrest, particularly in regions where job opportunities are limited and social services are lacking.

In a statement released on Discord, the organizers of the Gen Z 212 protest movement asserted, “The right to health, education and a dignified life is not an empty slogan but a serious demand.” They called for peaceful protests while criticizing the government’s “repressive security approaches.” Despite these calls for non-violence, the situation has become increasingly chaotic, especially in areas away from major development projects.

Unrest Escalates Amid Calls for Change

Violence has broken out in various cities, particularly in the eastern and southern regions of Morocco, including in Inzegane and the province of Chtouka Ait Baha. Footage from local news outlets depicts protesters throwing stones and setting vehicles on fire. In Oujda, the largest city in eastern Morocco, a police vehicle reportedly injured a demonstrator during a clash with protesters.

The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) reported that 37 individuals were arrested in Oujda on Monday, including six minors. These detainees are among hundreds apprehended during the unrest, with many arrests captured on video. The local chapter of AMDH stated that those detained would appear in court on Wednesday.

As protests continue, Amnesty International urged government authorities to engage with the youth’s legitimate demands regarding their social, economic, and cultural rights. The organization emphasized the need to address widespread concerns about corruption and inadequate public services.

Public Sentiment Fuels Ongoing Protests

The “Gen Z” protests resonate with similar unrest seen in countries like Nepal and Madagascar. The leaderless movement has tapped into widespread dissatisfaction over the government’s spending patterns, particularly regarding new stadiums being constructed in anticipation of the World Cup. Protesters have chanted, “Stadiums are here, but where are the hospitals?” This sentiment has intensified following the tragic deaths of eight women in a public hospital in Agadir, which has become a rallying cry for change in Morocco’s healthcare system.

The protests, which gained momentum on platforms like TikTok and Discord, have attracted support from notable figures, including Moroccan star goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and celebrated rapper El Grande Toto. These endorsements have further energized the movement, especially following the weekend’s arrests.

In response to the unrest, Moroccan officials have denied prioritizing World Cup infrastructure over essential public services. They attribute the current challenges in the healthcare sector to issues inherited from previous administrations. The governing majority in parliament has scheduled a meeting on Thursday to discuss reforms for healthcare and hospitals, led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch.

As the protests show no signs of abating, the Moroccan government faces increasing pressure to address the grievances of its youth and ensure that their voices are heard amid ongoing social unrest.