Rabat, 1 October 2025 — Youth-led protests across Morocco have escalated into widespread unrest, leaving at least 263 members of the country’s security forces injured, according to the Ministry of Interior. The demonstrations, which began peacefully on Saturday, have intensified over successive nights, with violent clashes reported in multiple cities.
Organised online by a loosely affiliated group known as GenZ 212, the protests demand improved access to education and healthcare. However, authorities say the movement has been marred by vandalism, looting, and attacks on public infrastructure.
On Tuesday night, demonstrators reportedly threw stones, Molotov cocktails, and brandished knives. More than 400 individuals have been detained, and 142 security vehicles along with 20 private cars were set ablaze.
Significant damage was reported in cities including Agadir, Oujda, Tiznit, and Inezgane, where banks, pharmacies, and commercial businesses were ransacked. In total, 23 civilians were also injured.
The Interior Ministry stated it would uphold the right to protest within legal bounds but warned that it would respond with “restraint and self-control” to maintain public order. GenZ 212, in social media posts, distanced itself from the violence, asserting its commitment to peaceful protest and clarifying that its grievances lie with the government, not security forces.
This wave of unrest is the most severe since the 2016–2017 Rif region protests, raising concerns about growing socio-economic frustration among Moroccan youth.
Moroccan Parliament Building, Rabat Picture by Fernando Pascullo
