فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
During the public session of the Moroccan House of Representatives on Monday, December 2, 2024, unemployment emerged as a key topic of debate among lawmakers and government officials. Discussions focused on the alarming state of the labor market, particularly in light of current economic and social challenges. The government’s pledge to create one million jobs during its term was scrutinized against the backdrop of rising unemployment, which now stands at 13.7%, according to various statements and economic reports.
Minister Younes Sekkouri, responding to parliamentary questions, highlighted the government’s efforts to tackle unemployment, particularly in rural areas, where rates are disproportionately high. He revealed that 132,000 non-agricultural jobs had been created in recent months, bringing the total to over 600,000 since the current administration took office. Despite adverse conditions, including years of drought, these figures signify notable progress, he said. The minister also outlined the allocation of 14 billion dirhams to fund employment programs, emphasizing the support of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and initiatives aimed at boosting rural economies through targeted financing for projects designed to improve social and economic conditions in remote areas.
However, several lawmakers criticized the government’s efforts, arguing that its measures had fallen short of expectations. MP Ibrahim from the Haraki group questioned the government’s ability to fulfill its electoral promise of creating one million jobs. He pointed to the economic report accompanying the 2025 Finance Bill, which shows rising urban unemployment despite slight improvements in rural areas, suggesting an imbalance in the government’s approach. Lawmakers urged swift implementation of policies to support SMEs, noting that significant budget allocations have yet to yield tangible results.
Another MP raised concerns over data from the High Commission for Planning, which reveals the labor market has shed more than 300,000 jobs in recent months. Youth unemployment remains alarmingly high, with an estimated 4 million young Moroccans classified as part of the “lost generation” — neither studying, working, nor receiving training. This, as highlighted in a report by the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council, exacerbates the country’s social challenges and underscores the urgent need for effective solutions.
The session underscored the gravity of Morocco’s unemployment crisis and highlighted the pressing need for coordinated, impactful policies to address this growing issue.
source : fesnews media
