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Striking a Balance: Moroccan Government Pursues Consensus on Labor Laws Through Continued Dialogue
In a bid to strike a delicate balance between the rights of workers and employers, the Moroccan government has resolutely embarked on a path of dialogue and consultation with trade unions. The centerpiece of these efforts is the draft regulatory law governing the conditions and modalities for exercising the right to strike, an issue that has long been a subject of intense debate and negotiation.
Addressing the Chamber of Representatives during a question-and-answer session on Monday, Younes Sekkouri, the Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills, affirmed that the dialogue with trade unions is ongoing, with the aim of reaching a consensual formula on the contentious draft law.
Sekkouri revealed that a staggering 30 meetings have already been held with trade union representatives, underscoring the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive and participatory process. These meetings, he emphasized, continue unabated, as the parties strive to reach a profound preliminary agreement with the unions on the draft law before proceeding to the parliamentary examination stage.
The minister expressed his optimism that a consensus can be reached with the trade unions, paving the way for the adoption of a strike law that strikes a delicate equilibrium, guaranteeing the rights of both workers and employers while ensuring a harmonious balance between rights and obligations.
Sekkouri underscored the broader implications of this endeavor, asserting that the objective is to demonstrate to the international community that "the right to strike in Morocco is exercised in accordance with controls that safeguard both rights and duties."
Reflecting on the government's efforts to address labor concerns, the minister highlighted the signing of a significant social agreement aimed at implementing the accord reached on April 30, 2022. He emphasized that the right to strike is enshrined in international labor legislation and the Moroccan constitution, asserting that this fundamental right should not be unduly restricted but exercised fluidly as a legitimate means of exerting pressure to uphold workers' rights in both the private and public sectors.
However, Sekkouri stressed that the exercise of this right must not adversely impact employers who respect workers' rights, adhere to collective bargaining agreements, and uphold the freedom of trade union activity. He underscored that the right to strike must align with constitutional provisions, be accessible to all, have clear justifications, be exercised in good faith, and be subject to specific negotiation deadlines.
The minister acknowledged that certain strikes are prompted by disagreements with employers who fail to respect workers' rights, emphasizing that such grievances constitute "a claim-based issue requiring budgetary study."
Regarding the labor code, Sekkouri affirmed the government's determination to avoid further delays in its implementation, expressing his desire to see the laws agreed upon with trade unions enacted, as these are "societal issues that transcend political sensitivities."
As the dialogue continues, the Moroccan government's pursuit of consensus on the draft law regulating the right to strike reflects a commendable commitment to striking a balance between the interests of workers and employers. Through this inclusive and consultative approach, the nation seeks to uphold fundamental labor rights while ensuring a conducive environment for economic growth and social stability.