Moroccan General Strike (1990)

The Moroccan General Strike of 1990 was a general strike in Morocco in 1990 over anger at neoliberalism, high cost of living, authoritarianism and a desire for democracy.

Background

In the mid-1980s, Morocco underwent an economic crisis and began implementing neoliberal reforms under the guidance of the IMF, this led to an increase cost of living, hunger and unemployment mainly suffered by the young.

Events

The two major trade unions in the country called a general strike that the government declared undemocratic and illegal. Although before the announcement the King of Morocco announced wage increases and extension of benefits. The unions ignored this and went on strike anyway, with between 40% and 80% of the country going on strike as workers filed up the streets of cities. Workers attacked upper-class hotels, cars, shops and banks with molotov cocktails and set up barricades in the street as police attacked them with tear gas, batons and bullets. Soldiers were deployed and eventually crushed the protests, killing around 33 people.

Results

The strike led to the government increased the minimum wage by 15% and an expansion of sick and maternity leave.

See Also

• Revolutions of 1986 - 1993

Results

Global Nonviolent Action Base - Moroccans general strike for higher wages, 1990