Over the past two decades, Morocco has made significant strides in combating child labor, yet the issue persists in informal sectors and hazardous activities. On July 1, the Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESE) unveiled a comprehensive report outlining strategic recommendations to fully eradicate this challenge in the Kingdom.

Public perception and policy review

The report, titled Toward an effective public policy to eradicate child labor in Morocco, reflects findings from a national consultation revealing that 78% of 1,540 surveyed individuals believe child labor remains widespread despite progress. The CESE emphasized the need to reassess existing public policies and introduce stronger measures to address structural issues fueling this phenomenon.

Progress and persistent challenges

Official data highlights a dramatic reduction in child labor, with the number of children aged 7 to 17 engaged in economic activities dropping from 517,000 in 1999 to approximately 101,000 in 2024—a decline exceeding 80%. While this progress is commendable, the CESE underscores that complete eradication remains elusive.

The Council’s president, Abdelkader Amara, noted, “In 1999, over half a million children were working. By 2024, that number has fallen to around 100,000—an achievement worth acknowledging. Yet, these gains are not enough to meet the goal of full elimination.”

Root causes and societal impact

The CESE identifies deep-rooted factors such as the informal economy, poverty, and socio-economic vulnerability as key drivers of child labor. Amara stressed that a child’s primary place should be in school and nurturing environments, warning that child labor stunts physical, psychological, and educational development. He also highlighted its role in perpetuating social inequalities and hindering national progress.

Public observations

Survey responses revealed that 27% of participants frequently encounter child labor in public spaces, particularly through street vending, heavy load carrying, and vehicle cleaning. Additionally, 22% reported alarming trends like organized begging, child exploitation, and involvement in drug trafficking.

Critical recommendations

The CESE advocates for revising the Labor Code and updating the 2010 decree banning hazardous child labor. Another key proposal is raising the minimum working age to 16, aligning it with the age of compulsory education to better integrate social and educational policies.

Strengthening prevention, monitoring, and protection mechanisms is also a priority, as nearly six out of ten child workers are engaged in dangerous activities. The Council recently formalized a partnership with the National Observatory for Children’s Rights (ONDE), led by Princess Lalla Meryem, to enhance coordination in prevention and protection efforts.

Amara concluded, “Child labor has no place in a nation like Morocco, where progress has been made in so many areas.”