RABAT — Youth-led collective GenZ 212 resumed nationwide protests this weekend, calling for sweeping reforms to education and healthcare, tougher action on corruption and relief from a grinding cost-of-living crisis.
Saturday’s rally was the first since King Mohammed VI addressed parliament 10 days ago amid weeks of unrest. While the King urged job creation and improvements in public services, many demonstrators said the speech fell short.
“It sends a message to the authorities,” said Reda, a protester who described the gathering as a bid to unify ranks and coordinate future actions. “Even though we paused for more than 10 days, we are continuing, and will continue until our demands are met—not just in words but in reality. We want to see solutions that satisfy young people and make us feel that our daily sacrifices are worthwhile.”
Another protester, Naji, cautioned against quick conclusions about the movement’s impact. “Whether this movement will bear its fruit, I think it’s very soon to tell. In politics there are a lot of variables. So, it’s soon to tell—but obviously the youth are hopeful.”
Organizers said the pause in mobilizations allowed local groups to prepare logistics and messaging, pushing back on suggestions the movement had lost momentum. They also noted that Morocco’s youth activism has drawn inspiration from recent Gen Z–driven campaigns abroad, including in Nepal.
GenZ 212’s platform centers on:
- Education and healthcare reform: upgrades to facilities, staffing and access.
- Anti-corruption measures: stronger enforcement and transparency.
- Economic relief: policies to tackle inflation and expand opportunities for young people.
Authorities have not publicly commented on Saturday’s protests. The collective said further actions are planned unless it sees concrete government steps and timelines.
For now, the message from Morocco’s Gen Z is one of resolve: the movement has regrouped and intends to keep up pressure for tangible changes to daily life.
