Rabat, Morocco - Young Moroccans are risking arrest and facing alleged mistreatment as they continue to participate in the GenZ 212 protests, driven by frustrations over economic hardship, social injustice, and a desire for systemic change. Demonstrations have swept across the country in recent weeks, resulting in over 1,400 arrests, according to the Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH), with 409 placed in police custody according to the Ministry of the Interior.
The protests, largely fueled by Gen Z activists, reflect a growing discontent among Moroccan youth who feel excluded from economic opportunities and disillusioned with the political status quo. Participants cite concerns ranging from rising living costs and inadequate healthcare and education to widespread corruption and a lack of political depiction. “We want a fairer society,and we don’t intend to remain silent,” warns Hamada,a demonstrator involved in organizing the movement.
One student, Anas, shared his experience with *franceinfo, alleging he was detained for forty-eight hours and forced to pay a 3,000 dirham (283 euro) fine for release. He also claims authorities require arrested protesters to sign documents acknowledging acts of violence.”I don’t know yet if I’m going to be convicted or not.It was really violent. and that motivated me even more to bear witness to what is happening,” Anas stated. He expressed fear of further arrest, noting that “Manny of my friends have been arrested, some are still incarcerated.”
the movement’s momentum comes as King Mohammed VI prepared to deliver a highly anticipated speech. While demonstrators hope for concrete responses to their demands, some express concern about the protests being co-opted by political factions. Hafsa, 23, and currently unemployed, stated she “will continue to go to demonstrations” but worries about the movement mirroring the 2011 “Arab Spring” protests, which led to a new Constitution but were followed by a period of repression, as reported by *Le Monde.
“Basically, I demonstrate for changes in the education and health systems, for more equality and the end of corruption,” Hafsa* explained. Authorities have reportedly targeted young men in particular during the arrests.
First names have been changed at the request of the individuals to protect their anonymity.
