Gen Z Protests Escalate in Morocco, Madagascar

Youth-led Gen Z protests in Morocco and Madagascar have erupted over poor governance, high youth unemployment and failures in basic services, with activists organizing largely via TikTok, Instagram and Discord. In Morocco, the anonymous GenZ 212 movement mobilized mass demonstrations demanding better education and healthcare, and in several cities clashes with security forces devolved into looting, arson and confrontations that authorities say left people injured and killed. Protesters explicitly criticized government spending priorities — including preparations tied to a prospective World Cup bid — and have highlighted youth unemployment near 35.8% as evidence of misplaced priorities. In Madagascar, Gen Z–led marches over rolling blackouts and water shortages called for President Andry Rajoelina's resignation; Rajoelina dissolved his government, but unrest continued under curfews amid reports of dozens killed, many injured and detained. Regional bodies and the UN have urged restraint and dialogue as governments confront the dual challenge of restoring services and addressing deep youth grievances.