Moroccan government advances social dialogue to enhance worker welfare

The Moroccan government has officially initiated the April round of social dialogue, reaffirming its commitment to improving the socio-economic conditions of workers and fostering cooperation with social and economic partners. This crucial meeting took place in Rabat under the leadership of Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch, bringing together key government ministers, representatives from major labor unions, and private sector stakeholders.

The session was attended by several senior officials, including Minister of Economy Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Minister of Employment Younes Sekkouri, Minister Delegate in charge of the Budget Fouzi Lekjaa, Minister Delegate in charge of Relations with Parliament and government spokesperson, Mustapha Baitas, and Minister Delegate for Digital Transition Amal El Fallah.

During the event, Akhannouch engaged in separate discussions with representatives of Morocco’s largest trade unions, including the Moroccan Labor Union (UMT), led by Miloudi Moukharik; the General Union of Moroccan Workers (UGTM), headed by Naama Miyara; and the Democratic Confederation of Labor (CDT), represented by Khalid Houir Alami. Additionally, talks were held with the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), led by its president Chakib Alj.

These constructive discussions covered a broad spectrum of topics related to previously signed agreements and new initiatives. Akhannouch highlighted that the government had fulfilled several key commitments made during the April 2024 round of dialogue.

Notable commitments include a general wage increase of MAD 1,000 (approximately $108) for public sector employees, which will be disbursed in two phases, with the second installment benefiting nearly one million workers scheduled for July 2025. The government has also initiated income tax reductions for all employees, with middle-income earners enjoying savings of up to 400 dirhams and a 10% increase in the minimum wage for workers in both industrial and agricultural sectors.

Akhannouch announced that his administration has achieved two landmark social agreements within just half of its current term, reiterating the commitment to enhancing purchasing power and advancing Morocco’s social and economic agenda.

The discussions further addressed the implementation of outstanding social reforms and the resolution of sector-specific issues. The government pledged to continue institutionalizing social dialogue and announced that it would include local government staff concerns in the current round’s agenda, aiming for timely solutions.

A significant area of reform discussed was the overhaul of Morocco’s pension system. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to a participatory approach, referencing the April 2022 agreement that outlines guiding principles for pension reform. A national committee overseeing this process is already active.

In addition, amendments to the Labor Code were discussed, reflecting responsiveness to labor union demands and ongoing economic developments.

In his closing remarks, Akhannouch commended the strength and continuity of cooperation between the government and its social partners. He reiterated that social dialogue is not a seasonal event but a strategic priority rooted in the vision of King Mohammed VI.

While social dialogue has taken various forms in Morocco over the decades, its current institutionalized framework began in April 2022, following a landmark agreement between the government, labor unions, and employers under Akhannouch’s leadership, marking a new phase in labor relations.