By Blitzik Sports
Morocco’s plan to build the world’s largest football stadium ahead of co-hosting the 2030 World Cup has sparked nationwide protests, with many citizens accusing the government of misplaced priorities.
“I am protesting because I want my country to be better. I don’t want to leave Morocco, and I don’t want to resent my country for choosing to stay,” said 25-year-old communications manager, Hajar Belhassan.
The youth-led movement, Gen Z 212, organized via Discord and TikTok, began demonstrations on 27 September across 10 cities under slogans such as “No World Cup, health comes first” and “We want hospitals, not football stadiums.”
Their demands include access to free quality education, affordable housing, improved healthcare, job creation, and the adoption of English as the country’s second language. Anger intensified after eight women died in a poorly equipped maternity ward in Agadir last month, exposing deep flaws in Morocco’s healthcare system.
Police have arrested over 400 protesters, with three deaths reported following violent clashes in Lqliaa. “It breaks my heart to see young, educated, and peaceful people faced with arbitrary arrests,” Ms. Belhassan lamented.
Another protester, Hakim, 23, shared his frustration: “My father had a stroke… If we didn’t have savings for private care, he would have died. What am I gaining from a country that cannot provide healthcare or education?”
Authorities reported that 260 police officers and 20 demonstrators were injured during the unrest. Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue, but protesters insist they will not back down until “concrete change” is achieved.
While many Moroccans remain proud to host the 2030 World Cup, Ms. Belhassan summarized the movement’s sentiment:
“We love football; it’s in our blood. But we are missing the foundations. Sure, let’s build stadiums — but let’s also build our education and health systems.”