Youth Political Trust As A Driver for Increasing the Country’s Resilience to Socio-Economic Challenges

Abstract

Amid rising socio-economic challenges – such as high youth unemployment rates and stark disparities in development between urban centers and rural areas – youth political trust emerges as a critical factor in enhancing institutional resilience and sustaining democratic stability. This study aims to assess the levels and determinants of political trust among youth aged 18 to 24 in the Tangier–Tetouan–Al Hoceima region of Morocco. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a 2023 quantitative survey (n = 400) with 20 in-depth interviews and 5 focus groups, enabling both numerical analysis and rich contextual interpretation. The questionnaire examined trust in local versus central institutions, perceptions of public service quality, and patterns of political participation. Two hypotheses were tested: (1) political trust declines under worsening socio-economic conditions, and (2) trust decreases as institutional distance increases. The findings strongly support the second hypothesis, with trust levels in local councils (40%) and regional councils (41%) markedly higher than in the government (16%) and political parties (15%). However, no statistically significant relationship was found between household income and political trust, partially contradicting the first hypothesis. Qualitative data revealed that distrust primarily stems from perceived institutional inefficiency, unfulfilled electoral promises, lack of transparency, and weak government communication – particularly in employment, education, and healthcare. The study underscores the urgent need for inclusive and transparent governance that actively engages youth, thereby enhancing institutional legitimacy and strengthening the state’s capacity to withstand current and future socio-economic challenges.