Morocco.. Has “Generation Z212” changed its methods of protest?

The “Generation Z 212” youth movement in Morocco has shifted from daily to weekly demonstrations, and reduced the ceiling of its demands, which were focused on reforming education and health and fighting corruption, with an increasing focus on digital work and communication via the Internet.

New tactics instead of changing strategy

Muhammad Al-Awni, head of the Organization for Freedom of Media and Expression, believes that the movement did not change its general strategy, but rather modified its tactics and field tools, saying:

“Generation Z did not back down from its goals, but rather developed its methods of work, invested intelligently in digital media, and succeeded in breaking the barrier of fear among large segments of young people.”

Al-Aouni added that the movement has begun to achieve some tangible results, indicating the government’s readiness for dialogue, and its announcement of raising the education and health budget, and providing 27,000 new job opportunities.

From daily to weekly protest

Since its launch in late September, the movement has led daily demonstrations to demand social and institutional reforms, but it later decided to limit itself to one day of demonstration per week, especially on Saturdays, focusing on the demand to link responsibility to accountability and release detainees due to their peaceful participation.

Al-Aouni believes that this transformation is logical and practical:

“The daily continuation of the demonstration is organizationally and temporally exhausting, and it was necessary to adjust the rhythm without abandoning the demands.”

Government response and official statements

The Moroccan government has announced on more than one occasion its readiness for dialogue with young people, and pledged to “accelerate social programs” and increase the education and health budgets.

“The government has picked up on the message and is working quickly to provide capabilities, and is ready for a serious dialogue with young people.”

In the 2026 draft budget, the government allocated 140 billion dirhams ($14 billion) to education and health, and announced the construction of new university hospital centers in Agadir and Laayoune, and the completion of major projects in Rabat, Beni Mellal, Guelmim, and Errachidia, in addition to rehabilitating 90 hospitals and improving the quality of education.

A digital generation is reshaping the landscape

“The strength of the movement is not measured only by the number of demonstrators, but also by the number of people interacting through the digital space, which gives it wide spread and profound influence.”

This movement contributed to liberating the public space and reviving the culture of political and societal debate, and Generation Z “restored confidence in the ability of young people to act and influence, after years of political reluctance and indifference.”

“The demonstrations may have subsided, but the spirit of the movement remains. Demands, discussion, and involvement in the nation’s issues have today become part of the consciousness of a new generation that believes in peaceful and responsible change.”