North Africa Faces Turbulence: Protests, Economic Strategies, and Tensions

Recent developments across North Africa are reshaping the region’s political and economic landscapes. Protests in Morocco, an ambitious energy strategy in Algeria, and economic challenges in Egypt highlight the complexities facing these nations.

Major Protests Erupt in Morocco

In Morocco, protests led by the younger generation have entered their second week, with demonstrators rallying in ten cities. These protests are the largest the country has seen in years, as participants demand job opportunities and improved public services. Tensions escalated over the weekend when clashes occurred between youth-led protesters and police, reflecting widespread discontent regarding government priorities. The protests emphasize a broader issue of youth unemployment and a sense of neglect in the face of flashy government projects.

This surge of activism comes as Moroccan feminist activist Ibtissame “Betty” Lachgar received a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for “offending Islam,” raising concerns over free speech in the country. Analysts argue that the protests are rooted in deeper structural issues, particularly the neglect of education and healthcare, as highlighted by the Middle East Institute’s report.

Algeria’s Bold Energy Plans and Economic Adjustments

Algeria has unveiled an ambitious energy strategy worth $60 billion aimed at expanding its oil, gas, and hydrogen output from 2025 to 2029. This plan also includes a commitment to adding 3 GW of renewable energy capacity while reducing gas flaring to below 1%. Despite these ambitious goals, Algeria’s draft budget for 2026 aims to cut the deficit by 35%, reflecting a cautious approach amid expected spending of $135 billion. The government is betting on growth in sectors like agriculture, industry, and construction to support these targets.

Meanwhile, Italy’s Eni has resumed offshore drilling in Libya, signaling a potential return of investor confidence in the country following years of instability. This move is part of a broader recovery strategy for Libya’s energy sector, which has been significantly impacted by ongoing political unrest.

In Egypt, the government has requested liquefied natural gas (LNG) suppliers to delay cargo deliveries through the end of the year due to tight domestic gas supplies. The Egyptian government has also announced an EGP 10.2 billion plan for the Sinai Peninsula, which includes the construction of new hospitals, desalination plants, and schools, aimed at improving local infrastructure.

Tensions have flared over the flooding of farmlands along the Nile in Egypt and Sudan, reigniting disputes related to Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam and the broader implications for water security in the region.

Chad’s parliament has taken a significant step by abolishing presidential term limits, allowing Mahamat Déby to extend his rule, raising concerns about democratic processes in the country.

The European Union has reached a trade agreement with Morocco that extends tariff benefits to exports from Western Sahara, a move condemned by the Polisario Front. This issue continues to be a point of contention in North African geopolitics.

Reports from various expert analyses indicate that the crisis of jobless graduates in the Maghreb region is exacerbated by sluggish economies and rigid labor markets, creating a challenging environment for youth seeking opportunities.

As North Africa navigates these tumultuous waters, the interplay of politics, economics, and social dynamics will continue to shape the future of the region. The coming weeks will be crucial as governments respond to public demands and international pressures, with the potential for significant shifts in policy and social stability.