Morocco election marked by low turnout and growing youth frustration
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Morocco’s parliamentary election has produced a new political configuration, but with turnout falling to just 38.08%, down from 50.86% in 2021 and the lowest level in almost two decades. Provisional results put the centre-right Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) first with 97 seats in the 395-member House of Representatives, followed by the National Rally of Independents (RNI) on 66 and Istiqlal on 65. The Justice and Development Party (PJD), which suffered a major setback in 2021, returned to fourth place with 54 seats.
The result comes amid growing concern over the relationship between Morocco’s young population and its political system. Only around 4% of registered voters are aged between 18 and 24, while youth unemployment reached 37% among 15 to 24-year-olds in 2025. Young Moroccans were also at the centre of protests last year demanding better healthcare, education, jobs and living conditions.
The issue of migration has added to the pressure. In July, tens of thousands of mainly young Moroccans attempted to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, with economic hardship and limited opportunities cited among the factors behind the surge.
The new parliament will also oversee preparations for Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 World Cup, alongside efforts to address inequality, employment and public services. PAM’s lead does not by itself determine the next government, as Morocco’s multi-party system requires coalition negotiations.
