Morocco tackles persistent child labor with new cece strategies

Despite significant strides over the past twenty years, child labor remains a pressing issue in Morocco. While the number of minors engaged in economic activities has dropped by over 80% since 1999, the problem continues to affect informal sectors and hazardous work environments. The Economic, Social, and Environmental Council (CESE) has taken up this challenge, unveiling a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at eliminating child labor once and for all.

CESE’s findings and public sentiment

In a report titled ‘Toward an effective public policy to eradicate child labor in Morocco’, CESE President Abdelkader Amara highlighted that 78% of 1,540 citizens surveyed in a public consultation believe child labor ‘remains widespread in the country.’ This stark perception has driven the institution to reassess existing policies and introduce stronger measures.

Progress and ongoing challenges

Abdelkader Amara acknowledged Morocco’s achievements, including the legal ban on child labor for those under 15 and the gradual phasing out of hazardous jobs for minors aged 16 to 18. Official data confirms this progress: the number of children aged 7 to 17 working in economic activities fell from 517,000 in 1999 to around 101,000 in 2024—a reduction of more than 80%.

‘In 1999, over half a million children were working. Today, that number stands at roughly 100,000—a remarkable achievement worth celebrating,’ Amara noted. However, he cautioned that ‘while undeniable, these gains are not yet sufficient to fully eradicate child labor.’

Root causes and societal impact

The CESE identified key structural factors fueling child labor, including the informal economy, poverty, and widespread socio-economic vulnerability. ‘A child’s place, after their family, should be in school, fostering growth, socialization, and education,’ Amara emphasized.

He stressed that child labor harms physical, psychological, and educational development, warning that it perpetuates social inequalities and undermines national progress. ‘Eradicating child labor is essential—it deprives children of their right to a balanced upbringing and quality education,’ he stated.

Public perceptions and alarming trends

Survey results revealed troubling trends: 27% of respondents reported witnessing child labor in public spaces, such as street vending, heavy load-carrying, or car washing. Another 22% cited grave concerns, including organized begging, sexual exploitation of minors, and involvement in drug trafficking.

The CESE also revealed that ‘nearly six out of ten child workers are engaged in hazardous activities,’ underscoring the urgent need for stronger prevention, monitoring, and protection systems.

Policy recommendations and future steps

The CESE’s proposals include revising the Labor Code and updating the 2010 decree on hazardous work for minors. It also advocates raising the minimum working age to 16, aligning it with mandatory schooling and reinforcing ties between education and social policies.

Amara also announced a new framework agreement between the CESE and the National Observatory for Children’s Rights (ONDE), led by Princess Lalla Meryem. This partnership aims to boost coordination in prevention, protection, and enforcement efforts. ‘Child labor has no place in a nation like Morocco, which has made remarkable progress in so many areas,’ he concluded.