The decline in Morocco's population growth rate reflects broader global trends of urbanization and changing family structures, which are influenced by economic factors and lifestyle changes.
The concentration of the population in urban areas indicates a shift in economic opportunities, with cities becoming hubs for employment and education, drawing young people away from rural areas.
The potential for demographic collapse, similar to trends seen in countries like Japan and Italy, highlights the urgency for Morocco to implement policies that address these demographic shifts.
If current trends continue, Morocco may face a demographic crisis characterized by an aging population and a shrinking workforce, which could hinder economic growth.
Proactive measures, including enhancing family support systems and improving living conditions, will be essential to stabilize population growth and ensure sustainable development.
The shift towards nuclear families may continue, necessitating adjustments in social services and economic policies to support changing family dynamics.
The 2024 General Population and Housing Census in Morocco has revealed a significant slowdown in the country's population growth, with a rate of only 0.85%. This marks a decline from previous decades, where growth rates were as high as 2.6% between 1960 and 1982, and 1.25% between 2004 and 2014. The total population has increased from 33 million in 2014 to 36.8 million in 2024, but the declining growth rate raises concerns about the country's demographic future and its economic and social implications.
The census also indicated a rise in the number of families, which increased by approximately 1.9 million families since 2014, reaching 9.3 million families. This reflects a shift towards smaller nuclear family structures, with the average household size decreasing from 4.6 to 3.9 members. Urban areas are seeing a concentration of the population, with over 70% residing in just five regions, particularly in major cities like Casablanca, which alone houses about 30% of the population.
Experts warn that the declining growth rate could lead to significant economic challenges, including increased pressure on resources due to a rising number of retirees compared to those in the labor force. The demographic trends suggest a need for proactive policies to enhance purchasing power, improve education and healthcare services, and support affordable housing to mitigate potential social and economic crises.
