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CNDH President Bouayach Sounds Alarm: Informal Labor's Stranglehold on Morocco's Economy

CNDH President Bouayach Sounds Alarm: Informal Labor's Stranglehold on Morocco's Economy
Tuesday 20 February 2024 - 07:35
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In Morocco, the prevalence of shadow labor persists as a significant obstacle to development and societal harmony, warns the president of the country's foremost human rights organization.

Amina Bouayach, the head of the National Council for Human Rights (CNDH), raised concerns on Monday during the Eighth Parliamentary Forum on Social Justice regarding the deep-rooted presence of informal labor in Morocco. Despite the government's continuous efforts to invigorate the economy and foster job opportunities, Bouayach highlighted that more than 70% of the workforce currently operates outside the protective frameworks and standards of the formal sector.

This shadow economy exacts a substantial toll. According to Bouayach, workers engaged in informal employment expend an average of 145 additional hours annually for significantly lower wages compared to their formal counterparts, as per official statistics. Such disparities in working conditions and remuneration exacerbate inequality and hinder productivity throughout the labor market.

This situation disproportionately affects women and youth. Bouayach revealed that the percentage of female participation in informal employment has surged to a remarkable 67.6%, while youth unemployment persists at alarming rates despite initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth. Consequently, large segments of the population are excluded from meaningful engagement in economic activities.

Bouayach cautioned attendees of the forum that the absence of decent, dignified work could jeopardize Morocco's social stability and sustainable development. She emphasized the necessity for comprehensive policy reforms to prioritize the integration of marginalized groups and the creation of high-quality employment opportunities for all citizens.

"Providing decent work equates to nurturing human capital," Bouayach asserted, underscoring its pivotal role in achieving social justice predicated on the preservation of human dignity. As a prominent advocate for rights in the nation, Bouayach stressed that substantial changes are imperative to unleash Morocco's economic potential and safeguard fundamental labor standards. Transitioning towards a formal, organized market is essential to realize genuine and inclusive progress.


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