Job Placement Programs and Job Access in Morocco

What is it about?

Each year, labor market intermediaries (LMIs) play a crucial role in helping people find jobs and improving the connection between employers and employees. In Morocco, several types of agencies provide various services such as direct job placement, training programs, and subsidized employment. These services are designed to help individuals enter the job market more easily, especially in a country where unemployment can be a challenge. This study specifically examines the impact of two types of LMIs in Morocco: placement agencies, which help connect job seekers directly with employers, and the "IDMAJ" program, which offers subsidized jobs to individuals. The goal of the study is to evaluate how these two agencies affect people's ability to find work, especially in terms of reducing unemployment and improving job placement success. To achieve this, the researchers used a method called "double-difference," which compares data from national surveys on employment conducted by the High Commission of Planning in 2012 and 2015. They also used another matching method, comparing data from the Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training’s 2010 survey. The findings of the study reveal that placement agencies have a significant positive impact on improving employment rates for people who use their services. However, the IDMAJ program, while beneficial, has a weaker and less consistent effect on reducing unemployment. This study adds to a growing body of research assessing the effectiveness of active labor market policies (ALMPs) in Morocco. Previous studies have also evaluated similar programs, and this new research provides further insight into which types of labor market interventions work best in Morocco’s specific context.

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Photo by The Jopwell Collection on Unsplash

Photo by The Jopwell Collection on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study is unique and timely because it evaluates the effectiveness of labor market intermediation programs in Morocco, a country where unemployment remains a significant challenge. While many studies have assessed labor market interventions, this research provides valuable, up-to-date insights into how specific programs—like placement agencies and subsidized employment—affect job access and employment rates in Morocco. By using recent national survey data, our findings contribute to a clearer understanding of which types of support work best in improving job opportunities for workers, especially in developing economies. This work is particularly important as Morocco, like many other countries, is seeking solutions to reduce unemployment and improve the overall job market, making it highly relevant for policymakers, researchers, and organizations involved in employment and economic development.

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