Young women in Meknes and Fez (Morocco): Perceptions about participation in the public sphere and gender equality

Abstract

From a qualitative research in the cities of Meknes and Fez, this article analyses young women’s participation in the public sphere in Morocco. Specifically, we have had as reference the changes that have occurred since the so-called Arab Spring of 2011 where youths and feminism played an obvious role. Findings show that nine years after the Arab Spring, there has been no substantial improvements in the lives of Moroccan women in terms of gender equality. However, it is striking that they are very much present in participating in the public sphere from ‘grassroots’ (civic society, trade unions, etc.) levels where they find resources and spaces to get-together, create opportunities and make further progress in the fight for their rights.