Public Outcry Against Morocco's GMT +1 Time Zone
Since 2018, Morocco has officially adopted the GMT +1 time zone, aligning itself with France and Spain, except during Ramadan when it observes Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This decision has sparked considerable controversy, leading to a petition that has garnered over 300,000 signatures advocating for a return to the natural time zone of GMT. The petition, titled "We Want to Return to Natural Time," argues that this abrupt change has detrimental effects on individuals' biological clocks, negatively impacting sleep patterns, concentration levels, and overall mood.
Impact on Daily Life and Mental Health
The petition highlights serious concerns about the long-term consequences of this time shift, which many claim creates a form of "social jet lag." This phenomenon mimics the fatigue and disorientation often experienced after traveling across time zones. Proponents of the petition assert that the GMT +1 time zone results in chronic sleep debt, persistent fatigue, decreased focus, and heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and mood disorders. In response to this growing discontent, the petitioners are working to formalize their demands by launching an official petition in accordance with Moroccan laws regarding citizen petitions.
Public sentiment appears to be shifting against the GMT +1 time zone. A survey from October 2025 revealed that only 28% of Moroccans supported the current time zone, while 43% opposed it. Additionally, 40% of respondents viewed the time change as having a negative impact on their daily lives. These statistics indicate a significant disconnect between government policies and public opinion, prompting calls for a reassessment of the time zone decision that prioritizes the well-being of Moroccan citizens.
As reported by ouest-france.fr.
