Moroccan Unions Clash Over Right to Strike Legislation
Tensions are flaring between Moroccan trade unions over proposed strike legislation, sparking heated debate and accusations of backroom deals. The controversy centers around the accusation that one union gave the government a “blank check” regarding the new law, a claim vehemently denied.
Nourdine Slik, head of the Moroccan Labor Union (UMT) group in the House of Councillors, launched a scathing attack on the General Union of Moroccan Workers (UGTM) during a meeting of the Finance, Planning, and Economic Development Committee. He accused an unnamed union of essentially giving the government free rein on the strike law. This “blank check” metaphor implies an unquestioning acceptance of the government’s proposals, bypassing crucial negotiations and potentially undermining workers’ rights.
UGTM representatives fired back, denying any such agreement and emphasizing their commitment to protecting workers’ interests. “We do not buy or sell in union work, and we have not signed anything related to the draft strike law,” one member declared. This strong rebuttal highlights the deep divisions between the unions and the sensitivity of the issue.
Adding fuel to the fire, Slik refused to retract his statement, although he avoided naming the specific union he accused. This ambiguity only intensified the conflict and fueled speculation. The controversy echoes earlier statements by UGTM Secretary General Enaam Mayara, who reportedly expressed willingness to sign a “blank check” on the strike law, further complicating the situation. This prior statement lends credence to Slik’s accusations, even without explicitly naming the UGTM.
The clash extends beyond inter-union disputes. Slik also criticized Younes Sekkouri, Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills, for submitting the draft law to Parliament without prior consensus with the unions. He likened Sekkouri’s actions to the repressive tactics of the Oufkir era, a period marked by significant restrictions on civil liberties. This comparison underscores the perceived severity of the government’s actions in the eyes of the unions. Slik also expressed concern about the potential reaction of the International Labour Organization (ILO) to the passing of a law without proper consultation. The ILO’s stance on the right to strike is well-documented, emphasizing the importance of social dialogue and the protection of workers’ fundamental rights. [Link to relevant ILO resource on the right to strike]
Khalid Asti, a member of the National Labor Union (UNTM) parliamentary group, added another layer to the debate by criticizing the government for failing to fulfill its commitments under the April 25 agreement. This agreement stipulated two rounds of social dialogue before submitting the draft budget law to Parliament. Asti pointed out the inconsistent and often stalled nature of sectoral dialogues, emphasizing the need for greater government effort to implement the Prime Minister’s directive on these discussions. While acknowledging progress in sectors like education, economy, finance, justice, and health, he highlighted the significant challenges remaining in other areas. This broader context of unmet agreements further underscores the strained relationship between the government and labor unions.
The ongoing dispute raises crucial questions about the future of labor relations in Morocco. Effective social dialogue is essential for a healthy democracy and a thriving economy. The ability of unions to represent their members effectively and the government’s willingness to engage in meaningful negotiations are critical for achieving social peace and economic stability. Asti’s concluding remarks emphasized the importance of strengthening the relationship between the government and social partners, advocating for greater commitment to institutionalizing dialogue and developing effective mechanisms to address workers’ concerns. The path forward requires a renewed commitment to collaboration and a recognition of the vital role that unions play in a democratic society.
