### General strike in Morocco: at the heart of social and economic issues
On February 5, 2024, Morocco saw the start of its first general strike in ten years, marked by an unprecedented mobilization of the country’s five main unions. This collective action, far from being a simple jolt in an already tense socio-economic context, turns out to be a manifestation of a deep malaise, echoing structural challenges that undermine the daily lives of Moroccan workers.
#### A contested law and a silent revolt
At the heart of this strike, a new law governing the right to strike, voted by Parliament two days earlier, sent shockwaves through the union landscape. This legislation, described as “liberticide” by the unions, reinforced workers’ fears about the protection of their fundamental rights. Younes Firachine, a member of the executive board of the Democratic Confederation of Labor, points out that this law gave disproportionate power to the executive to suspend strikes, even though the unions were hoping for significant progress.
The current revolt is rooted in a climate of discontent that has intensified in recent years. Economic reforms, while presented as removing barriers for a bright future, have not led to a tangible improvement in living conditions for the majority of Moroccans. By increasing inequalities and tensions between employers and workers, the government finds itself, in spite of itself, on a social fault line.
#### Inflation and the high cost of living: an unbearable burden
The other major demand of the unions concerns purchasing power, a hot topic in a period when soaring prices are hitting Morocco hard, particularly for basic necessities. The promise of a 10% increase in the minimum wage faces a bitter reality, where many employers do not respect the standards in force. The prices of essential foodstuffs, such as meat or chicken, have exploded, plunging a significant part of the population into alarming precariousness.
On the one hand, this situation reflects a growing disparity between government policies and the realities of citizens. On the other hand, it highlights the urgency of a broader reform of the Moroccan economic and social system, which must be responsive and adapted to the evolving needs of its population. At the same time, the unemployment rate, which stands at more than 13% and peaks among young people, requires bold initiatives to stimulate employment and professional integration.
#### International comparisons: a difficult context
To better understand the Moroccan situation, it is relevant to put it into perspective with other countries in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa). In Algeria, for example, recent social movements have also been fueled by rising living costs, while countries like Tunisia have seen their unions play a key role in the democratic transition, leading to deep but difficult to implement reforms.
In this, Morocco is facing a multifaceted crisis that goes far beyond union rituals. General strikes, while legitimate expressions of discontent, must be accompanied by genuine political will to address the underlying causes of popular distress. Governments must not only respond to the cries of the workers’ hearts but also anticipate future crises with inclusive economic policies.
#### Towards a new social model?
At this stage, it is essential that this momentum of mobilization is not stifled in favor of security management. Rather than viewing this strike as an isolated event, the relevant authorities should interpret it as an opportunity to open a constructive dialogue with unions and workers. This could potentially pave the way for a new social model where workers’ rights are respected, but also where employers and the state work together to build a balanced economy.
Time is running out for Morocco, which must urgently transform this crisis into an opportunity. The implementation of concerted solutions between unions, government and the private sector is essential if the country wants to escape this spiral of discontent and build a sustainable future for its citizens.
Ultimately, these days of strikes resonate as a call for solidarity and collective responsibility. It is an invitation to rethink the foundations of social justice and economic development in Morocco, so that all Moroccans can aspire to a better future, far from the uncertainty and precariousness that currently characterize their daily lives.