Why did riots occur in Casablanca in 1981?

The riots that occurred in Casablanca in June 1981 were a symptom of significant domestic strain within Morocco. By the early 1980s, the country faced a combination of economic and environmental challenges that fueled public unrest, including several poor harvests and a sluggish economy.1

Furthermore, the nation was experiencing a continued financial drain resulting from the ongoing war in Western Sahara, which exacerbated internal tensions. These factors collectively contributed to the volatile environment that led to the violent demonstrations in the city.1