Moroccan labor union calls for 'anger' on May Day

The Moroccan labor union, the Democratic Confederation of Labour (CDT), has issued a powerful call to action for May Day, urging workers across the nation to transform the traditional celebration into a "station for expressing anger, protest, and continued struggle." This militant stance reflects deep-seated dissatisfaction with the current economic conditions and the perceived lack of progress on key labor demands.

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A station for expressing anger, protest, and continued struggle, for a general increase in wages and pensions in the public and private sectors, and a review of income tax brackets.

At the heart of the CDT's demands is the urgent need for a general increase in wages and pensions for both public and private sector employees. The union also insists on a revision of income tax brackets, aiming to alleviate the burden on lower and middle-income earners. Furthermore, the CDT is pushing for the full implementation of all previously signed agreements, including those concerning common professional frameworks for engineers, administrators, and technical staff, the establishment of new professional grades, and the unification of minimum wage standards (SMIG and SMAG).

The union's appeal extends beyond economic issues to encompass fundamental labor rights. The CDT is demanding strict adherence to trade union freedoms, including the ratification of International Labour Organization Convention No. 87, and the repeal of Article 288 of the Penal Code, which they argue hinders legitimate union activities. They are calling for an end to all forms of harassment and dismissal of workers for union affiliation, and a firm commitment to upholding the right to strike, organize, and engage in collective bargaining. The CDT vehemently opposes any "regressive laws or measures" that threaten workers' rights and gains.

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The implementation of all commitments included in the signed agreements: common frameworks (engineers-administrators-technicians-administrative and technical assistants), the new grade, unification of SMIG and SMAG, sectoral commitments, resolution of social disputes, encouragement of collective agreements...

In solidarity with women workers, the CDT emphasizes the importance of granting them all rights that ensure freedom, equality, and a dignified life. They call for protection against all forms of discrimination and violence in the workplace and urge the ratification of ILO Convention No. 190. The union also stresses the need for decent working conditions, combating precarious employment, and ensuring proper registration of all workers with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS). Finally, the CDT advocates for the establishment of a framework law to institutionalize genuine, productive, and binding social dialogue at all levels, and for proactive public policies to address future economic, financial, climate, food, and digital crises, while also prioritizing the fight against corruption and illicit enrichment.

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Respect for trade union freedoms, ratification of International Convention No. 87, repeal of Article 288 of the Penal Code, and cessation of all forms of harassment and dismissal due to union affiliation.