UNI stands in solidarity with Morocco, calls for urgent support after devastating earthquake 

UNI Africa, along with the entire UNI Global Union family, stands in full solidarity with our affiliate Union marocaine du travail (UMT) and the people of Morocco following a catastrophic earthquake on 8 September 2023, with a magnitude of 7.  

The devastating earthquake hit regions like Rabat, Azila and Marrakech, with the epicentre near Mount Toubkal in the High Atlas Mountains. 

The current numbers are staggering: over 3,ooo lives lost and nearly 6,000 injured, many critically. UNI Africa echoes ITUC Africa’s call to international humanitarian agencies to swiftly provide assistance to affected communities. 

“We would like to express our heartfelt condolences and join the ITUC Africa’s demand for urgent support,” wrote UNI Africa Regional Secretary Keith Jacobs in a letter to the UMT, “UNI Africa is calling for the relevant international humanitarian agencies to mobilize and deploy the necessary means and materials to assist the affected people and communities.” 

“We urge global solidarity and support for Morocco as it embarks on a challenging path to recovery. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and help Morocco rebuild after this tragedy.” 

UNI General Secretary Christy Hoffman said, “UNI and our affiliates around the world stand shoulder to shoulder with the UMT and the people of Morocco in the wake of this disaster. We express our deepest sympathy and solidarity with those who lost loved ones, those who have been injured and those who have lost their homes. We join the call for immediate, effective action to provide aid to those in need and to begin the efforts at recovering from this catastrophe.”

Unions wishing to support the earthquake relief efforts can also donate to the ITUC Solidarity Fund by contacting ITUC Deputy General Secretary Eric Manzi.