Moroccan Union Plans Nationwide Protests Against Controversial Strike Bill

Saturday 28 December 2024 - 09:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Moroccan Union Plans Nationwide Protests Against Controversial Strike Bill

Morocco's Democratic Confederation of Labor (CDT) has announced plans for widespread protests following its firm opposition to a new draft organic law on strike rights recently approved by the country's Lower House. The union has labeled the legislation as restrictive and incompatible with both constitutional principles and Morocco's international obligations.

Regional demonstrations are scheduled for January 5, 2025, across Morocco's regional capitals, following recent decisions by the CDT's national council. The union has also indicated the possibility of escalating its response through a national march and potential general strike.

In its official statement, the CDT specifically criticized the government's alleged violation of International Labor Convention No. 87, characterizing the draft law as a systematic attack on union freedoms. The confederation expressed particular concern about Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch's government using its parliamentary majority to push through legislation affecting fundamental societal rights without broader consensus.

The union maintains that the current draft retains problematic provisions from the original legislation, arguing that these impose excessive limitations on strike rights that conflict with constitutional guarantees. CDT officials have emphasized that the modifications made to the draft have not substantially addressed their core concerns about workers' rights.

As preparations for the protests move forward, the CDT has called for active and responsible participation from its membership base. The union has framed its opposition as a defense not only of strike rights but also of broader social achievements and fundamental labor protections that it claims are being eroded by current government policies.