On Tuesday, Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch stated that the government has established the foundations for an authentic Moroccan model of social dialogue. This model is based on clear principles and integrated choices, ensuring the regularity of dialogue rounds and the implementation mechanisms of the outcomes.
Responding to a central question on « Social Dialogue: A Mechanism for Promoting Workers’ Conditions and a Lever for Improving the National Economy’s Performance, » during a plenary session dedicated to the Prime Minister’s responses on general policy at the House of Councillors, Mr. Akhannouch explained that this represents a clear governmental vision aimed at consolidating the democratic framework and establishing the foundations of the social state, in line with the High Orientations of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
In this context, he highlighted that the deep conviction in the importance of social dialogue within the country’s institutions is rooted in the High Orientations from the Royal Speech on the 19th anniversary of the Throne Day, where His Majesty the King emphasized the need to work swiftly towards achieving social dialogue.
He added that the government places this issue at the center of its agenda, reflecting the Sovereign’s particular interest in social dialogue and its continuity. The Prime Minister emphasized the spirit of « sincere patriotism » that characterizes the dialogue between the executive and social and economic partners, which has enabled this dialogue to reach « mature stages resulting in tangible outcomes » during various rounds of social dialogue.
He noted that the context following the Covid-19 pandemic had a particular impact on redefining strategic priorities, focusing on socio-economic sectors, and developing new solutions to problems related to education, health, and employment. This includes establishing a new vision to address challenges related to sovereignty, placing the human element at the heart of the government program, and working towards realizing the social state project in its entirety, according to the citizens’ aspirations.
Mr. Akhannouch remarked that since the beginning of its mandate, in light of the dormancy that marked social dialogue in previous years, the government has been called to reactivate this institutional mechanism and create a climate of mutual trust among the dialogue stakeholders. Driven by a strong will to succeed in the rounds of social dialogue, the aim is to consolidate the pillars of the social state and enhance the national economy’s competitiveness.
Despite a difficult economic situation, the government has honored its commitments outlined in the governmental program, initiating rounds of social dialogue since taking office to start a new phase of national consensus with various partners and achieve new levels of cohesion and complementarity at national, territorial, and sectoral levels.
Mr. Akhannouch added that this collective will, combined with the commitment of all parties, led to the signing of a national charter to institutionalize social dialogue and ensure its continuity according to a specific agenda. These efforts culminated in the signing of the minutes on April 29, 2024.
He noted that these social agreements are « unprecedented in the history of Moroccan governments » due to the clear commitments they contain, primarily aimed at improving salaries in the public and private sectors and enhancing social protection for the working class against any conjunctural fluctuations. He also emphasized the government’s determination to examine all issues within the framework of responsible institutional dialogue and continue collective reflection to improve the material and moral conditions of the Moroccan working class.
He concluded that the achievements demonstrate a collective awareness of the centrality of social dialogue as a strategic choice of the state and illustrate the enormous efforts made to establish the foundations of the social state and improve the purchasing power of all citizens.
