As Morocco gears up for its parliamentary elections on September 23, 2026, the participation of 27 political parties highlights both the competitive spirit and pressing challenges facing the nation. With over 15.8 million registered voters, the upcoming vote serves not just as a mechanism for political change, but as a litmus test for the effectiveness of the kingdom’s electoral system, especially among younger citizens navigating economic uncertainties. The intersection of youth disillusionment with political institutions and the urgency for sustainable job creation underscores the broader narrative of Morocco’s democratic evolution.
Rabat, Morocco – Morocco’s parliamentary election campaign commenced on September 10, featuring 27 political parties vying for 395 seats in the House of Representatives. With more than 15.8 million voters registered for the pivotal vote on September 23, this election will significantly influence the composition of Parliament and play a crucial role in the formation of the next government.
However, this electoral competition brings to light a deeper, more profound question: How do citizens perceive the political system’s ability to address the issues that shape their daily lives? This question is of particular importance to the younger population in Morocco, who are increasingly voicing their concerns. An Afrobarometer survey published in March revealed that only about a third of Moroccans aged 18 to 35 express trust in Parliament, the head of government, and political parties. Interestingly, younger individuals are more inclined to engage in political discourse online and participate in demonstrations, hinting at a desire for change.
Registered voter demographics illustrate a pronounced age disparity, with those aged 18 to 24 constituting only 4 percent of the electoral roll, compared to 29 percent over 60. This disparity raises critical questions about political engagement among young Moroccans and whether they view electoral politics as a viable avenue for addressing their challenges.
Morocco grapples with significant youth unemployment, with estimates from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) indicating an overall jobless rate of 13 percent and an alarming 37.3 percent for those aged 15 to 24. A substantial proportion of youth also finds itself disconnected from education and employment opportunities. As a result, campaign promises regarding economic growth and job creation are not merely abstract political discourse but essential indicators of the government’s capacity to provide better living conditions.
Recent patterns also illustrate how economic hardship can push citizens to seek opportunities abroad, as evidenced by over 60,000 individuals attempting to cross into the autonomous Spanish city of Ceuta in late July. This surge, attributed to a combination of economic distress and social unrest, reflects a wider narrative around migration and opportunity, raising important questions during the election about Morocco’s recent economic growth and whether it translates into real opportunities for young citizens.
Despite a strong forecast for economic growth—projected at 4.4 percent in 2026 by the IMF—the tangible benefits remain elusive, especially in terms of job creation. Employment and household purchasing power are central themes in campaign platforms of the ruling coalition, which includes the National Rally of Independents (RNI), the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), and Istiqlal. The RNI has pledged to create one million jobs and raise the minimum wage gradually, while PAM also aims for significant job creation under a substantial financial commitment. Similarly, Istiqlal has focused on expanding public services and improving living standards.
In contrast, the Justice and Development Party (PJD), led by former head of government Abdelilah Benkirane, is trying to regain ground after suffering major losses in the previous election, where its seat count dropped dramatically from 125 to just 13. The PJD’s new platform centers on a diverse range of reforms, seeking to appeal to an electorate eager for change and accountability.
Ultimately, the upcoming elections will serve as a barometer for Morocco’s political landscape, testing if the current system can effectively bridge the gap between ambition and the everyday realities faced by its citizens. For the youth of Morocco, low trust in political institutions and high levels of unemployment suggest that traditional political avenues may compete with alternative forms of activism as they seek to shape their future.
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