Moroccan Gen Z Demand Hospitals Over Football Stadiums
In recent days, Morocco has witnessed a surge of protests led by its Generation Z. The demonstrations began on September 27, with participants rallying in ten cities to voice their demands for better healthcare over the construction of the world’s largest football stadium, intended for the 2030 World Cup.
Protests for Healthcare Over Stadiums
Demonstrators have criticized the government’s emphasis on sports facilities, which represent a significant investment of around $5 billion (£3.7 billion). Many protesters argue that such spending should prioritize essential services like health and education.
- Protest slogan: “No World Cup, health comes first”
- Over 400 individuals arrested
- Death toll includes three protesters amid escalating violence
Meet the Voices of Change
Hajar Belhassan, a 25-year-old communications manager from Settat, expressed her concerns regarding the state of healthcare in Morocco. Inspired by the protests, she joined the movement after learning about the arrest of a friend’s brother during a demonstration. “Health and education are necessities that should already be prioritized,” she stated passionately.
Growing Dissatisfaction with Healthcare
The protests were galvanized by the recent deaths of eight women in a maternity ward in Agadir, which raised alarms about the shortcomings of the healthcare system. In 2023, Morocco reported only 7.8 doctors per 10,000 residents, considerably below the World Health Organization’s recommended 23 per 10,000.
A Call for Basic Rights
The group spearheading these protests, known as Gen Z 212, aims to bring attention to various issues, including:
- Accessible public healthcare
- Free and quality education
- Affordable housing
- Improved public transport
- Job creation to reduce youth unemployment
- Adopt English as a second language
Belhassan and other protesters aim to bring about concrete change through their persistent efforts. Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue, but the demonstrators remain determined to push for reform until their demands are met.
Response to Violence
Over the course of the protests, violent clashes have erupted, resulting in injuries to both protesters and police officers. As of recent reports, 409 people have been detained. Critics have condemned the government’s heavy-handed response, comparing the current unrest to past riots, notably those of 1981, where protesters faced similar repression.
Despite the challenges, Belhassan articulates a vision for Morocco, one where essential services are prioritized alongside sporting events. “Let’s build our education and health systems,” she urges, emphasizing that the country’s future depends on taking care of its people.
