Morocco’s Census Calls for a National Pause: A Plea for Accuracy
In a bid to ensure the accuracy of the upcoming national census, Ahmed Lahlimi, Morocco’s High Commissioner for Planning, has made an unusual request to Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch: postpone all scheduled job recruitment examinations and administrative leave between September 1st and 30th, 2024. This period coincides with the nationwide census of population and housing, a crucial undertaking for the nation’s future planning.
Lahlimi’s appeal underscores the importance of maximizing participation in the census. By minimizing conflicting commitments, the hope is to ensure families are present in their homes when census takers arrive. This is particularly crucial for students and recent graduates who often participate in these recruitment drives.
The success of a census hinges on widespread cooperation. In Morocco’s case, over 55,000 individuals will be directly involved in collecting data. Lahlimi emphasized the need for a collective effort, urging not only families to remain available but also highlighting the crucial role of census participants, civil servants, and local authorities in ensuring a smooth and accurate process.
This census is not just a headcount; it’s a vital tool for shaping Morocco’s future. The data collected will provide a comprehensive picture of the nation’s demographic and housing landscape, informing policy decisions across various sectors. Accurate data is the bedrock of effective policy-making, impacting everything from infrastructure development and resource allocation to social programs and economic planning.
Lahlimi’s call to action resonates beyond the immediate need for census participation. It highlights the importance of accurate data in building a better future for Morocco. By working together, citizens and government can ensure this census lays a strong foundation for informed decision-making and sustainable development.
Beyond the Census: A Call for Labor Rights
In other news, the Democratic Confederation of Labor (CDT) has urged the Moroccan Parliament to withdraw the draft law regulating the right to strike. The CDT argues that the proposed legislation contradicts the Moroccan constitution and international human rights standards, echoing concerns raised about previously withdrawn government proposals.
The CDT advocates for a more democratic and transparent approach to labor relations. They call for the implementation of Article 8 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to form trade unions. This, they argue, should be done in a manner similar to the existing law on political parties, ensuring greater accountability and adherence to good governance principles.
Furthermore, the CDT emphasizes the need for a sliding wage scale that keeps pace with the rising cost of living. This measure, they argue, is essential to guarantee a decent standard of living for workers, retirees, and their families. The CDT also calls for an increase in pension payments and their exemption from income tax, advocating for the well-being of retired workers.
