The National Union of the Health Sector, affiliated with the National Union of Labor in Morocco, has written an open letter to the Head of Government, criticizing what it describes as a "serious government backtrack" on commitments related to the centralization of salaries for health employees. The union expressed its strong disapproval of the draft budget for the Ministry of Health and Social Protection for 2027.
The union's letter, dated November 7, 2026, and sent from Rabat, denounces the inclusion of health employee salaries in the "various expenses and equipment" budget, rather than under the "employee expenses" section of the state's general budget. This move is seen as a breach of trust in government commitments and has created anxiety about the administrative and financial situation of health workers.
The union argues that this change contradicts the agreement signed on July 23, 2024, which explicitly stated the government's commitment to centralizing salaries and maintaining the status of public employees through the general treasury. The union also cites Article 23 of the 2025 Finance Law, which legislatively established the continuation of general budget coverage for health employee salaries.
Despite appreciating some measures in the 2027 draft budget, such as the enhancement of financial allocations and the creation of 8,000 financial positions, the union believes these steps are insufficient and will not achieve their objectives as long as the professional and financial stability of workers is compromised. The union has requested the Head of Government to intervene urgently to correct this backtrack.
The union's letter emphasizes that the government's decision will have significant repercussions on the situation of health workers and has threatened to take all legitimate and lawful steps to defend employee rights. The union holds the government fully responsible for the political and social consequences of this decision.
A source from the Ministry of Health responded to the union's criticism, stating that there is no backtrack on centralizing salaries and that the government will fulfill its commitments. This response comes amid rising tensions between the government and health sector unions over budget allocations and worker rights.
The dispute highlights the ongoing challenges in Morocco's health sector, where unions continue to push for better working conditions, financial stability, and clearer government commitments. The situation remains a critical issue for the government to address, as it seeks to improve healthcare services while managing public finances.
Key points
- The Moroccan health sector union has criticized the government's budget plans for 2027, citing concerns over the centralization of salaries for health employees.
- The union argues that the government's move contradicts previous agreements and legislative texts.
- The dispute highlights ongoing challenges in Morocco's health sector, including the need for better working conditions and financial stability for health workers.
