Morocco Grapples with Youth-Led Protests, Demanding Social and Economic Reforms
Morocco is facing a wave of protests led by young people, a movement dubbed “Gen Z 212,” that has brought to the forefront deep-seated frustrations over economic hardship, corruption, and inadequate public services. The demonstrations, which began in late September 2025, have spread across at least 15 cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Agadir, and Tangier, and have been met with a forceful response from authorities.
The name “Gen Z 212” refers to Morocco’s international dialing code (+212) and identifies the movement’s core demographic as those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. This generation, tech-savvy and connected, is utilizing digital platforms to organize and amplify their message, mirroring similar youth-led movements in Nepal and Bangladesh. The protests represent the most significant challenge to the Moroccan government since the Arab Spring-linked February 20 movement in 2011 and the Hirak Rif uprising of 2016-2017.
The initial spark for the protests reportedly came from a tragic incident at Hassan II Hospital in Agadir, where women died during childbirth due to a lack of adequate care. This event quickly resonated with a broader sense of discontent over the deterioration of public services, particularly in healthcare and education. Demonstrators are also voicing concerns about regional inequalities and a youth unemployment rate that has reached 35.8 percent.
The protests were initially largely non-violent, a principle repeatedly emphasized by organizers. However, clashes with law enforcement erupted in several cities in early October 2025, leading to a crackdown by authorities. Reports indicate that at least three young men have been killed by police, and hundreds have been injured. Hundreds of arrests have been made, with over 200 demonstrators detained in Rabat during the first three days of protests and more than 400 arrested following the recent violence. Over 130 individuals are currently awaiting trial.
The handling of the protests by Moroccan authorities has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and opposition parties. The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) has accused the authorities of using “systematic violence” against young people who were demonstrating peacefully and condemned the government’s “security-oriented approach to social demands.”
After initially remaining silent on the events, the governing coalition, led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, issued a statement acknowledging the “social demands” of the young demonstrators and expressing a willingness to respond “in a positive and responsible manner.” The government also authorized demonstrations for the first time since the protests began.
The movement’s structure is described as decentralized and digitally networked, embodying principles of the “Electronic Left,” suggesting a new form of social mobilization in the Global South. Organizers are reportedly utilizing platforms like Discord to coordinate actions and disseminate information. The Committee for Justice has expressed deep concern over the arbitrary arrests of protesters and urged authorities to respect citizens’ right to free expression.
While the immediate catalyst was the hospital incident, the protests reflect a deeper frustration with systemic issues. The movement’s success in mobilizing a large number of young people and bringing attention to these issues suggests a significant shift in Morocco’s political landscape. The long-term impact of “Gen Z 212” remains to be seen, but it has already established itself as a powerful voice for change in the country.
