Fatal Clashes Erupt as Morocco's Gen Z Protests Against $35 Billion World Cup Investment

Morocco has experienced its first fatalities during youth-driven protests opposing inadequate public services and substantial expenditures for the 2030 men's soccer World Cup preparations.

According to the state news agency MAP, Royal Gendarmerie forces killed two individuals and injured several others on Wednesday in the southern town of Lqliaa near Agadir after allegedly being "forced" to defend themselves against attackers supposedly attempting to seize their weapons and ammunition.

This incident occurred during intensified demonstrations that evolved into confrontations with security personnel across multiple towns and cities late Wednesday. The growing unrest parallels recent "Gen Z" protests in other nations like Madagascar, where President Andry Rajoelina dissolved his government following days of civil disturbance.

The Moroccan Interior Ministry reported that at least 263 security force members and 23 civilians were injured during protests spanning 17 cities the previous evening. Authorities detained approximately 409 individuals.

Such widespread disruption is uncommon in Morocco, typically regarded as a stable investment destination in the Middle East and North Africa region. The unrest coincides with government plans to invest an estimated $35 billion in infrastructure, including facilities for co-hosting the World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

This significant expenditure has generated opposition among many of Morocco's 38 million residents, who view it as extravagant in a nation struggling with high youth unemployment, healthcare challenges, and inadequate educational facilities. A leaderless, tech-savvy group called GenZ212 has organized the opposition, mobilizing demonstrations through social media platforms.

"Health care first, we don't want the World Cup," has become a common chant among protesters.

The Interior Ministry accused demonstrators of "dangerous escalation," claiming they employed knives and firebombs. The ministry warned that individuals engaging in unlawful activities would face "firm and strict" consequences.

AMDH, Morocco's primary human rights advocacy organization, estimates more than 1,000 people have been arrested since Saturday. In Rabat alone, 148 protesters have faced various charges from undermining public security to committing violent acts.

Advocacy group Damir urged the government to reassess its investment priorities and "strictly respect" citizens' constitutional right to peacefully express their opinions.

In their statement, Damir expressed regret regarding "the disproportionate response of public authorities to these demonstrations, rejects the excessive use of force, and condemns the use of violence by intruders within the protests."