A Comprehensive Strategy to Combat Unemployment in Morocco

The Moroccan government has unveiled a new employment plan aimed at tackling the country's unemployment crisis, with a particular focus on the youth demographic. The initiative was introduced by the Minister for Economic Inclusion, Small Businesses, Employment, and Skills, during a recent conference held in Tétouan. The event, which discussed the challenges and opportunities surrounding employment policies in Morocco, highlighted the government's commitment to reducing unemployment rates, especially among young people without formal education or vocational training.

With a budget of 14 billion dirhams, the new plan aims to provide significant support to individuals struggling to enter the job market. One key component is a government initiative to support businesses through the National Agency for the Promotion of Employment and Skills (ANAPEC). This program will help companies hire workers without formal qualifications, giving them a chance to develop skills and gain experience.

Another central feature of the plan is an apprenticeship training program designed to facilitate the professional integration of young unemployed individuals into small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and cooperatives, particularly in rural areas. The government aims to expand this program, increasing its beneficiaries from 20,000 to 100,000 by 2025. This model, which combines learning with practical work experience, has proven effective in helping young people transition into the labor market.

The government is also focusing on rural employment stabilization programs, encouraging farmers to retain jobs and providing support to sustain employment in rural areas. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure balanced economic growth across the country.

In terms of immediate progress, the government reported the creation of 300,000 new jobs during the third quarter of 2024. These positions have been spread across key sectors, including industry, commerce, tourism, construction, and crafts, contributing to the overall reduction of unemployment.

Additionally, the government is addressing wage inequality by implementing a 5% increase in the minimum wage in the private sector, effective from January 1, 2025. This increase will apply to both agricultural and non-agricultural activities. The government is also working on a new law to regulate the right to strike, which aims to protect workers' rights, safeguard businesses, and promote labor freedom.

This comprehensive employment strategy reflects the government's commitment to tackling the root causes of unemployment and improving the quality of life for citizens across Morocco.