Regional Disparities of Social and Demographic Indicators in Morocco: A Comparative Cartographic Analysis Between the 2014 and 2024 Censuses
Adil Akallouch | Mohamed Hamjik | Aziz Mahjoub | Hossain Boudilab
Discipline: social sciences (non-specific)
Abstract:
ABSTRACT
This article aims to analyze the regional disparities of social and de-mographic indicators in Morocco by conducting a comparative carto-graphic study between the 2014 and 2024 censuses. Using data from the General Population and Housing Census (RGPH) and reports from the High Commission for Planning, combined with Geographic Infor-mation Systems (GIS), this research highlights significant spatial and temporal changes across various regions. Key indicators analyzed in-clude population density, unemployment rates, urbanization levels, lit-eracy rates, and economic activity. The results reveal stark regional disparities, with Casablanca-Settat and Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima maintaining high population density and urbanization growth, while rural regions like Drâa-Tafilalet and Béni Mellal-Khénifra continue to face persistent challenges, such as high unemployment and illiteracy rates. Notably, the southern regions of Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra and Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab have shown remarkable improvements in ur-banization and economic activity due to targeted government-led de-velopment projects.
Quantitatively, the study identifies a 5.4% national increase in ur-banization rates over the past decade, accompanied by a 7% reduction in national illiteracy rates. However, unemployment remains a critical issue, with some regions experiencing only marginal improvements. The ARIMA model projections indicate further urbanization by 2030, with potential risks of growing disparities if regional development pol-icies are not effectively implemented. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted policies aimed at promoting regional equity by investing in education, enhancing job opportunities in rural areas, and fostering balanced urban growth. The study emphasizes the im-portance of integrating GIS-based spatial analysis into policy-making to ensure sustainable and inclusive development.
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