The year 2024 was marked by numerous demonstrations from various layers of Moroccan society, expressing their dissatisfaction with economic, social and political issues. A year that saw the convergence of struggles. To analyze these events, Hespress FR asked Ali Chaabani, sociology researcher, who deciphers these mobilizations with acuity.
« Discussions around certain demonstrations or social movements in recent years, particularly in 2024, constitute significant elements of this period. For what ? Because a large number of movements came together during this year “, explains Ali Chaabani. According to him, these movements reflect a social climate under tension, where demands have multiplied in various sectors.
In the field of health, for example, Chaabani mentions the protests coming from medical students, nurses, health technicians, but also certain doctors. These mobilizations, according to him, were accentuated by major structural changes, such as the restructuring, renovation and reconstruction of hospital establishments, particularly in the capital. “ These transformations, although necessary, created disruptions in daily management, which sparked protests », Underlines the analyst.
The education sector has also experienced a wave of demonstrations involving students from several faculties, recalls the expert, who believes that these movements reflect a deep unease in the face of structural and organizational challenges in this area.
Beyond sectoral demands, the year was marked by protests linked to political and humanitarian issues. Questions relating to Palestine, particularly the situation in Gaza and Israeli interventions, have mobilized numerous human rights and solidarity associations.
« These upheavals in the Middle East have reactivated networks of activists and solidarity associations, who have expressed their indignation at the destruction in Gaza and the normalization of relations with Israel “, highlights the sociologist, noting that these demonstrations illustrate the connection between local struggles and international causes.
On an international scale, the mobilization of retirees in France has generated particular resonance. The increase in the retirement age to 62, then 63, or even 65 in the future, as well as the freezing of pensions, pushed this segment of the population to demonstrate. This question also resonates in Morocco, recalls the expert, citing the recent escalation of retiree mobilizations. According to him, Moroccan retirees are also feeling the effects of the stagnation of their income in a context of rising prices.
The economic crisis, a driving force behind the mobilizations
Economic difficulties were at the heart of social demands in 2024. Soaring prices, the high unemployment rate – reaching 21.5% according to the latest statistics – and growing precariousness have fueled strikes, sit-ins and protests in various sectors.
« Protests always occur when triggering factors are present. Unemployment, low wages and rising prices are all elements that push citizens to express their anger “, explains Chaabani. These problems have led, according to him, to movements in several administrations, public spaces and key sectors, reflecting growing frustration.
Asked about possible solutions, Ali Chaabani insists on the need for a global economic and social approach. “ One of the solutions – it is not the only one, but it is essential – is to improve the economic conditions of citizens. Particular attention must also be paid to socially vulnerable families “, he explains.
For Chaabani, it is crucial that political leaders become aware of social and economic expectations. “ Citizens notice the pharaonic projects which mobilize billions of dirhams. They wonder why some of these resources are not used to create jobs or reduce unemployment. This could ease social tensions », he adds.
Although these changes do not solve all the problems, they would significantly reduce protests, the analyst believes.
To conclude: ” A peaceful society, with improved social conditions, would be less inclined to mobilize massively, except for demands linked to rights and freedoms. ».
