Morocco’s youth take Gen Z protest demands to the polls

Young candidates hope the election can turn youth frustration into political participation.

x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Young Moroccan candidates are campaigning ahead of the September 23 parliamentary election, nearly a year after Gen Z-led protests brought demands for better public services, jobs and political accountability to the streets [Hajar Elkahlaoui/Al Jazeera] By Hajar Elkahlaoui Published On 22 Sep 2026 22 Sep 2026 Rabat, Morocco – Nearly a year ago, environmental entrepreneur Hamza El Kharroubi was protesting in the streets. This week, the 28-year-old is campaigning for a seat in parliament.

Doing political canvassing in Tetouan, El Kharroubi says he is cautiously optimistic that more young Moroccans will win seats in parliament this year.

He founded the Environment and Sustainability Party, seeking to channel growing youth engagement into formal politics.