Morocco’s Youth Protests Escalate Over Social Services

Protests over failing public services in Morocco have taken a deadly turn, with two people killed after security forces opened fire on demonstrators who stormed a police station near Agadir. What began last weekend as peaceful rallies demanding better healthcare and education has escalated into violent clashes, leaving nearly 300 injured and more than 400 arrested. The movement, largely driven by Gen Z groups using TikTok, Instagram, and Discord, accuses the government of prioritizing World Cup stadiums over urgent social needs. With youth unemployment at nearly 36% and anger over recent hospital deaths, the protests reflect deep frustration over inequality and poor governance in the North African nation. This deadly escalation marks a significant intensification, prompting a government investigation and raising the stakes in a growing national dialogue about the country’s future.

DW