Promised Wage Increase Struggles to Convince Youth in Morocco
As Morocco gears up for its legislative elections scheduled for September 23, the political landscape is buzzing with promises from various parties. Notably, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and the National Rally of Independents (RNI), two of the country’s significant political players, have committed to raising the minimum wage to 5,000 dirhams (approximately 450 euros), which represents an ambitious increase of over 30%. However, this proposition has been met with skepticism, particularly among the youth, who are grappling with high levels of precariousness and underemployment. Despite the allure of such a promise, many young Moroccans view it as insufficient and unrealistic given their current economic struggles.
In the bustling medina of Casablanca, 30-year-old Mohammed works in a tiny hair salon that barely receives a breeze from a fan. Living with three other individuals in a cramped apartment, he laments his financial situation, which he describes as akin to that of a student. "My salary is not enough to consider marriage or make any future plans," he expressed. For him, the proposed minimum wage increase is inadequate. Data from the High Commission for Planning indicates that from 2012 to 2024, purchasing power has stagnated, rising by an average of only 1.6% annually. In a city like Casablanca, where living costs are high, Mohammed believes that 450 euros would not even cover the basics, making the promise of a higher minimum wage feel hollow.
Young Voters Disengaged from the Political Process
Hamza, a 20-something freelance videographer, echoes Mohammed’s sentiments. With inconsistent income streams, he finds it challenging to lead a dignified life and often faces months without work. "You may work for a month and then not have any activity for four months. It’s not stable," he explained. This instability has led to a disconnection from the political scene. Hamza, like many of his peers, has little interest in the upcoming elections. He expressed that while there are individuals who genuinely wish to instigate change in the country, they remain inaccessible to the youth. This sentiment is reflected in electoral statistics, with only 19% of those aged 18-34 registered to vote, a significant drop from the 27% recorded in 2021.
This disconnect between political promises and the realities faced by the youth highlights a growing disillusionment among the younger population of Morocco. The impending elections, once seen as an opportunity for change, may instead result in further apathy if the voices of the youth are not heard and their needs addressed.
As reported by rfi.fr.
