Youth-led protests demanding better education and healthcare in Morocco escalated into violent clashes with security forces on Sept. 30, the fourth consecutive day of angry demonstrations across several cities. The protests were organized online by a loose network calling itself "GenZ 212," after Morocco's country code. In the southern cities of Tiznit, Inzegane, and Ait Amira, as well as the eastern city of Oujda, and Temara near the capital Rabat, hundreds of young protesters hurled stones at security forces attempting to disperse the gatherings. On Oct. 2, at least two protesters were killed when police opened fire in Lqliaa, near the coastal city of Agadir. Authorities said the troops fired to prevent protesters from storming a police station. (Reuters, BBC News, NYT)

Also Sept. 30, Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina announced the dissolution of the government led by Prime Minister Christian Ntsay, in response to widespread youth-led protests over power and water shortages.

The UN criticized Malagasy authorities' response to the demonstrations, reporting that at least 22 people have been killed and hundreds injured. The victims included protesters and bystanders killed by the security forces, as well as some killed in violence by gangs exploiting the chaos. The Madagascar demonstrations were also organized under the banner of "Gen Z."

This is not the first time that President Andry Rajoelina has experienced popular unrest; as the incumbent candidate in 2023, he was injured during protests over the presidential election. Nevertheless, these recent demonstrations have been described as the most serious challenge he has experienced since his reelection in the 2023 polls. (Jurist, PRI)

Note: Spikes in the price of food and fuel since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022 have contributed to popular privation and unrest worldwide.