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Youth: Political Reality and State Policies in Morocco
Abstract
In light of social upheaval and protests in both Tunisia and Egypt, one cannot ignore their power and the yearning of Arab youth for political expression. Many argue that the current events in the Arab world would be replicated in other countries such as Algeria, Morocco, and Yemen. However, I argue that despite the outcomes of the revolution in Tunisia and Egypt, Morocco remains one of the most complex countries in which it would be difficult to see organized massive uprisings. This is because one needs to better understand the different contexts and dynamics in which social movements germinate and operate. While Moroccan youth refuse to engage in the “silencing of the self” as a way to internalize repression and exclusion, they are also caught in the dilemma of co-optation and the pitfall of irrelevance. There are intrepid attempts by youth activists to assert themselves, including the formation of several youth organizations calling for youth civic and political empowerment. Yet, youth continue to be excluded from the position of political power. One should cast a critical perspective on the “menace of exclusion” and state policies of bricolage towards youth demands. The inadequacy of state policies in addressing youth issues or including them in policy formation processes is among the main factors that trigger discontent. With the increasing strength of reactionary government policies, and the parallel focus on stability discourse, youth issues in Morocco were increasingly ignored and the distinctive role of youth in policy never has been seriously considered. The contribution youth movements are making to political and social change includes the call for youth political inclusion. Youth in Morocco are learning how to shutter the symbols of power that most Moroccans revere, and continue to push the boundaries to have their voice heard. This paper will offer an in-depth look at the youth consistent involvement in demanding political change, and their work as activists in the political and civic milieu in Morocco. It will also examine state policies that respond to youth demands, their effectiveness and success, and examine how youth view these policies in light of the current state of affairs in the Arab world. To what extent would youth be successful in altering and changing the political reality in Morocco? And what is the nature of this change? are two questions that this response will also try to answer.
Discipline
International Relations/Affairs
Geographic Area
Morocco
Sub Area
Conflict Resolution