FORUM Report
On 20 February 2011, there are demonstrations in Morocco. Banners clearly state the reasons for it: crisis in education, high food prices, unemployment, corruption and housing shortages. As the slogans show, the people are eager for change. They are calling for freedom, dignity and justice. Unlike in Tunisia or Egypt, there is no mass turnout for the protests. With the exception of a few isolated incidents, the protests remain peaceful and relaxed. Does this mean that Morocco is somehow different? The regime decides to take action. The King announces changes to the constitution. But his speech raises more questions than it answers. The concessions are clearly not enough to satisfy the protesters, as that would require more concessions such as the dissolution of government and parliament, new elections and a call to tackle corruption. The protests do not lead to seismic shifts in the balance of power as has been seen in the neighbouring countries. Nevertheless, the demonstration has had an unmistakable impact. This report provides an interim review of a country on the move towards democracy and prosperity. |