Morocco is in the process of constructing what is expected to be the largest football stadium in the world as part of its preparations to co-host the 2030 World Cup. However, this endeavor has sparked significant protests across the nation, with demonstrators arguing that the estimated $5 billion investment in sports infrastructure reflects misplaced governmental priorities.
Protests coordinated by a group called Gen Z 212 have been taking place nightly, drawing inspiration from similar movements in other countries. The demonstrators are calling for urgent attention from authorities to address pressing social issues, since many feel that health and education should take precedence over sports facilities. Protest slogans highlight these sentiments, emphasizing demands for hospitals over stadiums.
The protests escalated following reports of the deaths of eight women in a hospital in Agadir, which some believe could have been prevented with better healthcare. The current ratio of doctors in Morocco—approximately 7.8 per 10,000 people—falls significantly short of the World Health Organization’s recommended minimum.
Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch has expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue, but demonstrators are undeterred, insisting they will continue until concrete changes are made. A list of demands circulated among protesters includes access to quality education and healthcare, affordable housing, improved public transport, and job opportunities, particularly for youth.
The police response has included mass arrests and incidents of violence, leading to casualties, which has drawn criticism from human rights organizations. Protests continue despite government efforts at repression, with calls for more serious reform growing louder, and some protesters have even suggested dissolving the government entirely.
Ultimately, many protesters such as Hajar Belhassan express a desire for Morocco to host the World Cup with dignity and proper infrastructure that meets the needs of its people.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8rv2l3me40o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss