Moroccan Government estimates MAD 45 billion cost for social dialogue implementation

Mustapha Baitas, the government spokesperson and Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of Parliament Relations, announced that the cost of implementing the outcomes of the social dialogue under the current government is expected to reach 45 billion dirhams. He emphasized the need to proceed with pension system reforms and the introduction of legislation governing strikes.

In response to questions from journalists during a press conference following a government meeting, Baitas stated that the government has prioritized social dialogue since its appointment, achieving significant agreements across various sectors.

He remarked, “The estimated cost of social dialogue, upon completing its various phases, is 45 billion dirhams,” calling it “a substantial figure that no previous government has ever negotiated with unions at this level.”

Baitas highlighted that the results of this dialogue extend beyond financial gains, including numerous benefits for various professional groups and reforms addressing pressing issues.

He also noted that one of the government’s challenges is the reform of pension systems, stating, “All the government has done is present the status of these funds to the stakeholders and assess possible solutions.” He described this issue as one that requires comprehensive attention, criticizing previous governments for implementing only temporary fixes that did not meet necessary goals.

Additionally, Baitas discussed the need for discussions on the regulatory framework for strikes, asserting, “This regulatory law should have been approved in the first legislative term after the constitution. It has been pending for over ten years, and now is the time to address it within the internal regulations governing the House of Representatives.”

He refrained from commenting on the “medical students” issue, explaining that “the matter is procedurally with the Ombudsman.” He added, “The Ombudsman is listening to representatives of the students and the government, and once the Ombudsman’s opinion is released, we can discuss the topic further.”