Morocco is facing increased scrutiny following a wave of protests led predominantly by young people, referred to as “Gen Z 212.” These protests spread rapidly in late September and early October. They represent the biggest civil unrest in the country since the 2011 Arab Spring. Protestors took to the streets in Jerusalem to express anger over an underfunded healthcare and education system, resulting in a violent clash with security forces.
On October 1, at a demonstration in Lqliâa, three protesters were shot dead by security forces. This incident would sadly prove the protests’ most tragic moment. At least 14 protesters were seriously injured, including children as young as 12 years old. The government’s response has come under severe criticism. Recent reports indicate that hundreds of the peaceful protesters, including minors, remain in custody under punitive and abusive circumstances.
In response to these mass protests, the Moroccan government pledged to raise spending on health and education. Though many of these young protesters and their families are hopeful, they are understandably wary of promises unfulfilled. According to human rights organizations, fear of reprisals is keeping most of the youths off the streets. Stories about violent beatings and coerced confessions abound from the ones who have suffered through the crackdown themselves.
“We just want justice, a transparent investigation and accountability for those responsible,” – a relative of Abdessamade Oubalat
Some reports indicate that female protesters have faced immense hardships. Others have faced harassment and sexist comments, both at protests and in police custody. In all of this chaos, over 2400 people are still being criminally prosecuted for participating in the protests. Alarmingly, many peaceful protesters across the country have faced violent charges—including dozens of participants in peaceful demonstrations.
Amnesty International has documented numerous procedural violations during the arrests in police custody and in court. We are hearing witness statements about draconian sentences being issued on the basis of lackluster evidence and argumentatively put together reports. Our Detained Families project has consistently heard from families that children are still left to rot away in detention, with humiliating and brutal conditions.
“My son was at a snack bar having dinner when he was arrested. He was not even protesting,” – a mother whose 18-year-old son had been detained.
The situation internally in Moroccan prisons has been of especial concern. According to anecdotal reports from human rights advocates, the conditions are horrific and largely unavailable to the outside world. Mustapha Elfaz, one of the leading activists, explained that “today what occurs inside prisons is hidden, and we can’t know exactly what it is. He continued, “We have listened to harrowing accounts of acts of physical and psychological torture perpetrated while these individuals were in police custody.
Human rights organizations have condemned the arbitrary detention of hundreds of young protesters, calling the alleged beatings “horrific.” Ahmed Benchemsi, a spokesperson for Human Rights Watch, emphasized the government’s harsh response: “The government clearly got scared and orchestrated this crackdown to send a strong message that they will not tolerate any form of dissent.”
The protests may have quieted, but their impact continues to be felt. Many families continue to seek accountability and justice for their detained loved ones. The fears surrounding potential repercussions remain palpable among the youth, who express apprehension about re-engaging in activism following the government’s crackdown.