Rabat – The Moroccan government announced plans to introduce changes to the draft law on strikes to address workers’ concerns and align the legislation with the country’s evolving social and economic needs.
Younes Sekkouri, Minister of Economic Inclusion, made the statement on Wednesday in Rabat following discussions with union representatives and the General Confederation of Moroccan Entreprises (CGEM).
The minister described the draft law as essential for ensuring workers’ right to strike while safeguarding the freedom to work.
“The government is working closely with social partners to adopt a version of the law that meets expectations and addresses key issues,” he said.
Further adjustments would be made during deliberations in the House of Councillors, he added.
Unions as key advocates for workers’ rights
Union leaders have urged the government to ensure the law fully protects workers’ constitutional right to strike.
Youssef Allakouch of the General Union of Moroccan Workers (UGTM) said in a statement that his organization proposed comprehensive revisions to the 2016 version of the law. “These amendments aim to correct existing flaws and guarantee the right to strike as enshrined in the constitution,” he said
On the same line of demands, Younes Firachine of the Democratic Confederation of Labor (CDT) called for a broader discussion of social legislation within the framework of national dialogue.
Firachine noted the need for careful examination of the draft law to reach a consensus on its provisions.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Zouiten, Secretary-General of the National Union of Labor in Morocco (UNTM), underlined the importance of tackling workers’ demands through open dialogue and collaboration with all unions.
He urged the government to adapt the law to current realities and strengthen mechanisms for institutionalized dialogue with trade unions.
Towards a new path
Youssed Aidi, Secretary-General of the Democratic Federation of Labor (FDT), warned against imposing restrictions on the right to strike.
“Workers must be able to exercise this right per international standard,” he explained.
Aidi welcomed the government’s willingness to incorporate meaningful revisions proposed by the FDT in the House of Councillors.
He also observed that the discussions regarding the draft law were proceeding in tandem with a related bill on trade unions, which he describes as a necessary step for regulating labor relations and bolstering union roles.
CGEM Vice-President Mohamed Fikrat commended the ongoing dialogue, describing it as serious and constructive.
“The objective is to create a law that maintains balance and ensures the proper functioning of the business ecosystem while respecting workers’ rights,” he said.
Legislative milestone
The draft law gained majority approval in the House of Representatives last month following substantial revisions.
It secured 124 votes in favor and 41 against.
Among the notable amendments was the inclusion of domestic workers, such as cleaners, caregivers, and cooks, granting them eligibility to participate in strikes.
The legislation outlines the conditions and mechanisms for exercising the right to strike, and targets core demands of workers and employers.
With the government’s pledge to tackle outstanding concerns, the next phase of dialogue is expected to shape a law that meets the aspirations of workers.
It is also expected to foster a stable and productive economic environment for all Moroccan workers.
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