Moroccan Gen Z Protests Demand Govt Reform Amid Arrests, Violence

Morocco has witnessed ongoing protests led by the youth collective Gen Z 212, which demands reforms in healthcare, education, and an end to government corruption. The movement gained momentum following the deaths of eight pregnant women at a hospital in Agadir, highlighting deficiencies in the public health system. Protesters criticize the government's prioritization of expensive projects like stadiums for the 2030 FIFA World Cup over essential public services, chanting slogans such as "Stadiums are here, but where are the hospitals?" and calling for a boycott of soccer matches in December's Africa Cup of Nations. Despite King Mohammed VI's speech urging improvements in social programs, demonstrators remain dissatisfied, demanding the release of detained protesters and the removal of Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch. The government's response has included repression and arrests, which some say have fueled further unrest and violence. The protests reflect widespread youth frustration with unemployment, economic inequality, and lack of opportunities, with many young Moroccans considering emigration.