Morocco's Parliamentary Elections: A Test of Political Trust and Citizen Participation

The parliamentary elections in Morocco started on September 10, 2026, with 27 political parties competing for 395 seats in the House of Representatives. More than 15.8 million voters have registered to vote on September 23. These elections will not only determine the composition of parliament but also play a central role in forming the next government.

Challenges of Political Trust Among Youth

However, beyond the competition among parties, these elections raise deeper questions about citizens' trust in the political system. This issue is particularly significant for Moroccan youth; recent surveys show that about one-third of young people aged 18 to 35 trust the parliament and political parties. At the same time, young people are more active than older generations in sharing political content on social media and participating in demonstrations. This indicates that they are engaged with political issues, but do they see elections as an effective way to solve their problems?

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The Phenomenon of Unemployment and Economic Challenges

Morocco faces significant challenges regarding youth employment. The International Monetary Fund estimates that the unemployment rate will reach 13 percent by 2025, while unemployment among youth aged 15 to 24 will reach 37.3 percent. These figures indicate that young people are seeking real opportunities in the job market, and promises of growth and jobs are serious and tangible for them.

These pressures have also manifested outside of official electoral policies. In late July, about 60,000 Moroccans entered the autonomous city of Ceuta, marking the largest wave of crossings in recent history. This event illustrates how economic expectations and the migration aspirations of youth intersect.

Now, the focus is on whether recent economic growth and development projects will bring opportunities for young people. Despite a 4.9 percent growth in GDP in 2025, unemployment remains a significant challenge. These elections provide an opportunity for political parties to discuss their plans for employment and household purchasing power with voters.

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