Human Rights Watch Urges Morocco to Investigate Deadly Crackdown on Youth-Led Protests

Human Rights Watch Urges Morocco to Investigate Deadly Crackdown on Youth-Led Protests
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Moroccan authorities have carried out a harsh crackdown on youth-led demonstrations calling for reforms to public services, resulting in multiple deaths, injuries, and mass arrests, Human Rights Watch reported. The organization urged the government to respect the right to peaceful protest, investigate alleged abuses by security forces, and address citizens’ demands for improved healthcare and education.

Nationwide protests erupted on September 27 after the youth movement GenZ212 called for peaceful demonstrations against corruption and inadequate public services, while criticizing major spending on upcoming sporting events such as the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Although largely peaceful, some protests saw property damage.

Security forces, including the Royal Gendarmerie, reportedly used lethal force to disperse crowds, killing three people and injuring dozens. Nearly 1,000 protesters were arrested, including 39 children, with several receiving prison sentences. Videos verified by Human Rights Watch show vehicles driving into protesters in Oujda and gendarmes firing live ammunition during violent clashes in Lqliâa, near Agadir.

Protests were fueled by growing frustration over poor public services, including the deaths of pregnant women in an Agadir hospital. Reports say that Morocco spends just 2.3% of its GDP on healthcare—less than half the international benchmark—and while education spending meets global recommendations at 6%, literacy and academic performance remain low. Youth unemployment affects nearly one-third of Moroccans under 30.

The Interior Ministry said 354 people, including 326 security personnel, were injured nationwide, while hundreds of vehicles were damaged. Officials defended the use of force, claiming officers acted in self-defense after protesters threw stones and allegedly used knives. Courts have issued a range of sentences against protesters, including up to 20 years in prison for alleged vandalism and violence against police.

In a recent speech, King Mohammed VI said improving education, healthcare, and job creation are national priorities, though he did not address the protests directly. Human Rights Watch called on Morocco to adopt a rights-based approach to public spending and ensure accountability for excessive force, emphasizing that economic and social reforms must go hand-in-hand with respect for freedom of expression and assembly.