Moroccan Labor Union Demands Sovereignty and Economic Reforms

RABAT, Morocco — The Democratic Confederation of Labor (CDT) in Morocco has strongly condemned the recent visit of the Spanish King to the cities of Ceuta and Melilla, describing it as a provocative act aimed at consolidating the occupation of these territories. The CDT reiterated its long-standing demand for the recovery of these cities and the adjacent islands, emphasizing the need to end all forms of Spanish colonialism in Moroccan lands. The union stressed that good neighborly relations require respect for Moroccan national rights and sovereignty.

The CDT also expressed concern over the rising cost of living, particularly the increasing prices of fuel and their impact on purchasing power, transportation, production, and the cost of basic goods. The union called for concrete measures to control prices and curb the influence of sectoral lobbies. The CDT highlighted the national importance of restarting the Samir refinery to enhance energy sovereignty and security, restore refining and storage capacities, and maintain jobs. The union vowed to continue its struggle for the refinery's reoperation, urging for broad trade union and community mobilization to achieve this goal.

As Morocco awaits the appointment of new government members, the CDT outlined key social issues that any government program must address. These include a general increase in wages and pensions, tax justice, protecting purchasing power, combating unemployment, providing decent work, strengthening public services, and ensuring social protection. The union emphasized the importance of fulfilling social commitments and agreements, and establishing a genuine social dialogue linked to serious negotiations and the implementation of all social contracts.

The CDT also denounced what it described as systematic restrictions on trade union freedoms, targeting union leaders and activists, and disrupting social dialogue mechanisms in various cities, including Tangier, Berrechid, Ben Slimane, Agadir, and Khénifra. The union expressed solidarity with all those affected and called for an end to these practices, respect for the right to organize and belong to a union, the cancellation of retaliatory measures, the return of those expelled for union-related reasons, and the initiation of serious negotiations to resolve conflicts and respond to legitimate demands.

Finally, the CDT warned against the continuation of the failure to address labor demands, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to economic and social development that respects democratic principles and fundamental rights.

CONTEXT: Morocco has long contested Spain's sovereignty over the cities of Ceuta and Melilla, viewing them as occupied territories. The CDT's demands reflect broader tensions between Morocco and Spain, as well as internal economic and social challenges facing Morocco. The union's calls for economic reforms and respect for labor rights highlight the ongoing struggle for improved living conditions and workers' protections in the country.