What’s at stake as Morocco votes after migration attempts and youth protests

More jobs. Higher wages. Less inequality. Better housing, schools, hospitals and infrastructure.

Those are among the main concerns for Moroccan voters as they elect a new parliament on Wednesday.

The next government will oversee billions of dollars in investment as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 Fifa World Cup, prompting some to describe it as the “World Cup government”. A soccer boss could even emerge as prime minister.

Morocco’s new political leadership will mainly face pressure to address everyday concerns, while operating alongside a powerful monarchy that retains decision-making authority in strategic affairs.

Here is what to know about Morocco’s first parliamentary elections since deadly Gen Z-led protests erupted nearly a year ago and July’s mass border crossing into the Spanish territory of Ceuta left dozens dead.

Morocco’s economy is growing and attracting foreign investment, and new industries are developing. It has also become Africa’s most-visited destination.

The kingdom is a close US ally and maintains strong ties with Western capitals. It is among the few Arab countries that have diplomatic relations with Israel.

Behind the medieval palaces, glistening seas and breathtaking mountains that draw tourists from around the world lies an uncomfortable reality: Development remains uneven across the country, economic growth is not creating enough jobs, and 12.7% of Moroccans live in relative poverty.

Politicians say they have heard these grievances and have proposed solutions in their election manifestos. Many young Moroccans in particular say they have heard such promises before.

A total of 7,288 candidates from 27 political parties are competing for 395 seats.

The RNI party, part of the governing coalition, has promised a guaranteed monthly minimum wage of 5,000 dirham ($525 or R8,545) and to create 1-million jobs.

Another member of the governing coalition, the PAM party, said it would exempt salaries below 15,000 dirham ($1,575 or R25,635) from taxes and pledged 100,000 housing solutions for young people.

The Istiqlal Party wants to speed up treatment at public hospitals. The opposition left-wing PPS aims to cut the school dropout rate in half and tighten anti-corruption rules.

The moderate Islamist PJD party aims to narrow economic disparities between major economic hubs like Casablanca and other regions.