Water Privatization Dynamics in Morocco: A Critical Assessment of the Casablancan Case

This paper assesses the water privatization dynamics in Casablanca from a socio-economic and political perspective. It presents three main findings. First, the privatization of public water and sanitation in Casablanca took place under the tight control of the central government (the makhzen). While the delegated management was intended to improve water delivery, the outcomes after ten years are disappointing. Second, the public accountability of local elected officials came under strain due mainly to the power imbalances between a weak local delegating authority and a delegate with global power. Third, Casablanca's inhabitants have resorted to social protests to make their voice heard and claim their human right to water.