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Morocco's Economy

The Informal Economy and Youth Jobs

Why many Moroccans work informally without contracts, why youth unemployment is high, and the 2011 constitutional reforms after protests.

Many Moroccans work informally.

Informal work

Street vendors, small shops and farm labour without contracts or social security.

Youth unemployment

Unemployment is high among young urban graduates.

Women

Women’s labour force participation is low.

2011

During the Arab Spring, protests led King Mohammed VI to propose a new constitution in 2011.

Social protection

Since 2021, Morocco has been expanding health insurance and family allowances to informal workers.

Challenge

Growth in manufacturing hasn’t created enough jobs for all.

The street vendor

A vendor in Casablanca sells phone accessories without a licence or social security.

Thinking factory growth solves unemployment quickly

Jobs haven't kept up.

Key takeaways
  • Many Moroccans work informally.
  • Youth unemployment is high.
  • A new constitution came in 2011.
  • Social protection is expanding.
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