Morocco's Jobless Crisis Deepens as Drought Ravages Agriculture
Morocco's unemployment rate has surged to 13.7% in the first quarter of 2024, the highest level on record. This alarming increase is due in large part to a six-year drought that has severely damaged the nation's agricultural sector. Data from the High Commission of Planning reveals a labor market in upheaval, with job losses escalating at an unprecedented rate.
The dramatic rise in the annual unemployment rate, up from 12.9% a year earlier, highlights the economic impact of the relentless drought. Rural areas, heavily reliant on agriculture, have suffered the most, with 159,000 jobs lost over the past year. This significant decline was partially mitigated by the creation of 78,000 jobs in urban centers, leading to a net loss of 80,000 jobs nationwide.
The agricultural sector, which is the cornerstone of Morocco's rural economy, has been devastated, losing 206,000 positions. Although the construction and service sectors have shown some growth, with 25,000 and 34,000 jobs created respectively, their gains were insufficient to compensate for the steep losses in agriculture.
This crisis has had a disproportionate impact on Morocco's most vulnerable groups. Unemployment rates among youth (aged 15-24), university graduates, and women have reached alarming levels of 36%, 20%, and 20%, respectively. These statistics emphasize the urgent need for targeted measures to address joblessness among these populations.
Underemployment, where individuals work in jobs that do not fully utilize their skills or capacity, remains a persistent issue. While the national underemployment rate held steady at 10.3%, there was a slight improvement in urban areas, from 9.1% to 9%. However, rural areas saw a marginal increase, from 12.1% to 12.5%.
As Morocco faces this growing employment crisis, policymakers must focus on sustainable solutions to address the underlying issues. This includes diversifying the economy, investing in drought-resistant agriculture, and creating opportunities for the nation's youth and educated workforce. Addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering long-term stability and economic growth.