International Labour Organization applauds Morocco's new strike law

The Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, expressed his approval of Morocco's recently adopted strike law during a statement in Geneva. This law, validated by the Constitutional Court, is seen as a significant advancement in the nation’s socio-economic and political development strategy.

Houngbo remarked, “The adoption of the law governing strikes, particularly its validation on March 25, was excellent news for us at the ILO.” His comments followed a meeting with Younes Sekkouri, Morocco’s Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills, who was in Geneva for a two-day visit.

He commended the social dialogue that characterized the legislative process, stating it is “one of the best ways to ensure the sustainability of our actions.” This sentiment underscores the ILO's commitment to promoting social welfare within Morocco's development strategy, a vision Houngbo witnessed firsthand during his visit to the country last spring.

During their discussions, Houngbo and Sekkouri explored the various components of the new law and how the ILO can assist Morocco with its implementation. The ILO chief also expressed gratitude for Morocco's willingness to host a summit in early 2026 focusing on the fight against child labor, a major initiative for the organization.

“There are many topics that connect us to Morocco. Our relationship is very strong,” he noted, praising Morocco's active role within the African group and its contributions to governance discussions.

For his part, Sekkouri highlighted that the passage of the strike law by both chambers of Parliament and its validation by the Constitutional Court marks a significant step in regulating relations between workers and employers. The law introduces provisions for minimum service, aligning Morocco with a select group of countries that balance social, economic, and societal interests.

He also shared updates on other critical matters, including a roadmap for employment developed in collaboration with ILO experts over the past two years. This initiative, outlined in the 2025 finance law, specifically addresses the needs of approximately one million young people who are neither employed nor in education or training.

The conversation also covered Morocco's cooperation with the ILO in combating child labor, an area where the country has made significant progress, bolstered by the directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.

Sekkouri emphasized that recognition from international organizations confirms Morocco's pioneering status in this crucial issue. The meeting also included the presence of Omar Zniber, Morocco's permanent ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, and Nour Elamarti, the Director of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills.