Youth Voices Demand Economic Inclusion in Morocco's Growth
As Morocco approaches its legislative elections, the nation is witnessing significant economic growth, with projections estimating a robust increase of nearly 5% in 2025, followed by over 4% in the subsequent years, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This growth is largely attributed to extensive investments in key sectors such as automotive, high-speed rail, airports, and infrastructure, all gearing up for the anticipated World Cup in 2030. Furthermore, Morocco is establishing itself as a regional financial powerhouse, bolstered by the expansion of its banking sector throughout Africa and the development of Casablanca Finance City. Despite these promising economic indicators, a substantial segment of the population, particularly the youth, is being left behind, grappling with high unemployment rates.
Confronting High Unemployment Among Youth
The unemployment rate in Morocco stood at a staggering 13% in 2025, with youth unemployment soaring to 37.2% among individuals aged 15 to 24. Alarmingly, nearly 3 million young people between the ages of 15 and 29 are either unemployed, not pursuing education, or not engaged in any training programs. This disconnect has fueled social unrest, as seen during the summer when a mass migration of young Moroccans to Ceuta highlighted their desperation for better opportunities. The GenZ 212 movement had already voiced these grievances in 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for the government to transform the impressive economic growth and massive investments into tangible job opportunities for the youth. With legislative elections on the horizon, the challenge is clear: to convert Morocco's growth narrative into a shared economic future that includes its young population.
As reported by france24.com.
