2030 World Cup

World Cup protests in Morocco: “Where are the hospitals?”

Government-critical protests have been organized in more than ten cities in Morocco this weekend, reports AP. The protests are said to be among the largest in the country in several years and the dissatisfaction is based on what is perceived as poor economic priorities.

The protesters, mostly led by young Moroccans, are critical of the country’s investments ahead of the 2030 World Cup and believe that healthcare and education are being prioritized.

“The stadiums are here, where are the hospitals?” was a protest song that sounded in the eleven cities where protests were organized.

Morocco is one of six host countries for the championship. Three new stadiums have been built, writes CNN.

Youssef, 27: Give us lower prices and a better life

There is no hope in Morocco. That's what 27-year-old Youssef, who took part in anti-government protests in Casablanca this weekend, told the AP. He is calling for political reforms not only in health and education but also in "the entire system."

- I want higher wages, better jobs, lower prices and a better life.

This weekend's protests are said to be one of the largest in recent years. Among other things, the demonstrators are critical of the healthcare sector being left behind when the country invests money in stadium construction ahead of the 2030 World Cup.