Morocco advances social protection reform amid challenges

Morocco’s journey toward universal social protection is gaining momentum, but obstacles remain, according to Amina Bouayach, president of the Moroccan Human Rights Council (CNDH). Speaking at the 9th International Parliamentary Forum on Social Justice in Rabat, Bouayach underscored the critical role of social protection in securing citizens’ economic and social rights.

Highlighting Morocco’s ambitious target to achieve universal social protection by 2025, Bouayach described the initiative as a cornerstone of national development. She cited international frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, which emphasize social protection as a fundamental human right.

Bouayach reflected on Morocco’s progress over the past three decades, particularly the social protection reform launched by King Mohammed VI in 2021. Terming it a “structural shift,” she noted that the framework law 09.21 laid the groundwork for a comprehensive social protection system.

Despite these advancements, Bouayach identified significant challenges. Delays in registering citizens in the National Population Registry and Unified Social Registry have excluded many from receiving direct social support. Moreover, the transition from the RAMED system to mandatory health insurance has faced hurdles, including funding sustainability and unequal service distribution, particularly in rural areas.

Bouayach also pointed to insufficient communication by authorities, which has left some citizens unaware of how to access their social protection benefits. She emphasized the need for improved governance, streamlined management systems, and sustainable financing to address these issues.

In her concluding remarks, Bouayach called for aligning Morocco's social protection framework with international standards, referencing conventions by the International Labour Organization on social security and maternity protection. She reaffirmed the importance of strengthening governance to ensure equal access for all citizens.

Morocco’s reforms, while ambitious, remain a work in progress, requiring both perseverance and innovation to secure the economic and social rights of its population.