Moroccan Citizens Express Economic Woes and Corruption Concerns
The latest findings from the ninth cycle of the Arab Barometer, focusing on Morocco, reveal pressing economic and social issues that are resonating with the public as we approach 2025. Alarmingly, nearly 60% of Moroccans believe the current economic situation is poor, with a staggering 60% also feeling that corruption is prevalent to a significant or moderate degree within public institutions. This survey not only underscores widespread dissatisfaction with economic conditions but also highlights growing concerns regarding the quality of public services and rampant corruption.
When asked about their economic outlook, only 7% of respondents rated the current situation as very good, while 34% considered it good. In stark contrast, a significant 57% deemed the economic climate as bad or very bad. Looking forward, expectations remain divided; one-third of participants do not foresee any changes in the economic landscape over the next three years, while 27% predict a deterioration. Conversely, around 37% of those surveyed are optimistic, anticipating either moderate or significant improvements in economic conditions.
Food Insecurity and Daily Life Struggles
The economic hardships are starkly reflected in the daily lives of the Moroccan populace. The survey indicates that 56% of respondents have experienced situations in the past month where they had to consume food before having the funds to purchase more. Additionally, the survey reveals alarming food deprivation statistics from the previous year, with 34% of respondents reporting that they had to limit their diet due to insufficient resources. Moreover, 29% admitted to skipping meals, and 32% acknowledged that they experienced actual food shortages in their households. This crisis particularly impacts those with inadequate income to meet basic needs, with younger individuals more likely to express concerns about food security compared to older demographics.
When asked to identify the most pressing economic issues facing Morocco, citizens pointed to inflation as the primary concern, followed closely by poverty and a lack of affordable housing. Other cited difficulties include low wages, insufficient job opportunities, limited access to credit, and disparities between the wealthy and the poor.
In terms of public priorities, health care and economic development emerged as the most crucial budgetary concerns, each highlighted by 19% of respondents. Public support garnered 18% of preferences, followed by infrastructure such as roads and transport, and education.
The satisfaction levels regarding public services reveal a mixed picture. Electricity provision received a favorable rating of 62%, and water services garnered 57%. However, only 45% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the health care system, while the education sector fared slightly better at 48%. Both sectors are thus rated below the crucial 50% satisfaction threshold.
Furthermore, the survey highlights a notable preference among 45% of Moroccans for public sector employment over private sector jobs, largely due to perceived job stability and better salaries. Concurrently, 39% believe that obtaining employment necessitates personal connections or favoritism.
Corruption remains a significant concern for many, with 60% of respondents indicating they perceive corruption as widespread within state institutions. Interestingly, nearly half of the respondents, 47%, feel that the government is taking steps to combat corruption. This illustrates a complex perception, where ongoing corruption is recognized alongside acknowledgment of governmental efforts to address the issue.
Despite the expressed concerns regarding the economic situation and corruption, the survey indicates a growing confidence in various political institutions. Trust in the Parliament has risen from 38% to 51%, while confidence in the government has increased from 33% to 52%. Additionally, the approval rating for the former Prime Minister climbed from 30% to 45%. Notably, nearly half of Moroccans report being satisfied or very satisfied with the overall performance of the government, with this figure rising to 50%, a notable increase from 29% in the previous cycle.
The hierarchy of trusted institutions remains consistent, with the military at the top, followed by the police, the judiciary, and civil society. The Parliament and government rank next, ahead of the Prime Minister. The Arab Barometer also notes a relatively high interest in politics among Moroccans, with 42% expressing strong interest, marking the highest proportion among the countries surveyed in this edition. This interest spans across gender and age demographics, although it does not necessarily translate into equivalent participation in organizations and associations.
As reported by fr.hespress.com.
