WJWC Urges End to Violent Repression of Youth Protests in Morocco

Women Journalists Without Chains (WJWC) has expressed deep alarm over the violent response of Moroccan security forces to the peaceful youth-led demonstrations organized by the Generation Z movement across several Moroccan cities since late September.

Eyewitnesses and verified reports confirm that at least three protesters have been killed, dozens wounded, and more than 400 people arrested, among them minors, journalists, and media activists.

WJWC described the crackdown as a serious violation of Morocco’s international and constitutional obligations, emphasizing that the use of excessive force, mass arrests, and intimidation against peaceful demonstrators and journalists violates Articles 19 and 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 29 of the Moroccan Constitution, both of which guarantee freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

The organization underscored that the youth protests—driven by calls for dignity, education, healthcare, and job opportunities—reflect legitimate social and economic grievances that should be met with dialogue, not repression.

“The Moroccan authorities must respect the right of their citizens to express themselves peacefully,” WJWC said. “Silencing young people through violence and fear only deepens the crisis and erodes public trust.”

WJWC called for:

·       An independent and transparent international investigation into all reported violations, including deaths and ill-treatment of detainees;

·       The immediate release of all those detained in connection with the protests;

·       An end to the use of force and intimidation against demonstrators and journalists; and

·       Accountability for those responsible for ordering or committing abuses.

The organization also urged the Moroccan authorities to allow unrestricted access for journalists and human rights monitors to protest sites and detention centers to ensure proper documentation of violations.

WJWC warned that continued repression and impunity risk triggering deeper instability and alienating an entire generation of young Moroccans.

Issued by:

Women Journalists Without Chains (WJWC)

October 7, 2025