Morocco has been rocked by its most serious protests in more than a decade after two demonstrators were killed when police opened fire in Lqliaa, near Agadir. The shootings, which officials described as “legitimate self-defence,” came as the youth-led GenZ212 movement mobilized nationwide against government priorities they say favor football stadiums for the 2030 FIFA World Cup over healthcare, education, and jobs. With more than 1,000 arrests, hundreds wounded, and violent clashes spreading to Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakesh, the unrest has been described as Morocco’s most serious crisis since the Arab Spring of 2011.

Gen Z Frustration Over Priorities

The protests were triggered by Morocco’s decision to channel billions of dollars into World Cup stadiums and related infrastructure projects while hospitals, schools, and public services remain underfunded. Protesters argue that the money should be redirected to address systemic unemployment — nearly 36% among youth — and collapsing health services. “Stadiums are here, but where are the hospitals?” became a rallying cry. In Oujda, one demonstrator described the local hospital as a “jail,” claiming that patients are forced to pay bribes just to see a doctor.

Violence, Arrests, And Crackdown

Clashes have escalated into widespread street violence, with police stations and vehicles torched in multiple cities. Officials said more than 260 security personnel and at least 23 civilians were injured, while over 400 people have been arrested. In several towns, demonstrators attempted to storm government buildings, and in Oujda a protester was critically injured after being struck by a police vehicle. Authorities insist the two deaths in Lqliaa resulted from officers firing in self-defence during an attack on a gendarmerie facility. Despite calls for restraint, security forces have pledged to continue “firm” measures against unrest.

Regional And Global Resonance

The youth-led uprising is the largest Morocco has seen since the 2011 Arab Spring. Unlike earlier movements, GenZ212 is decentralized, digitally organized, and leaderless, making official dialogue more difficult. Protesters have hacked public billboards to spread their message and rely heavily on TikTok, Discord, and Instagram to mobilize. Human rights organizations have denounced the crackdown and urged authorities to respect peaceful demonstrations, while the government has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue and promised improvements in healthcare. For now, the monarchy has remained silent, raising concerns that the unrest could further destabilize one of North Africa’s traditionally more stable states.