BEYOND THE FORMAL REALM: FACTORS INFLUENCING FEMALE INFORMAL EMPLOYMENT IN GRAND CASABLANCA

Abstract

Morocco, like many developing countries, grapples with a dual economic structure, characterized by a coexistence of formal and informal economic activities, with the latter being predominant. The Informal Production Units (IPUs) in Morocco, estimated at approximately 1.68 million units, play a significant role in the economy, contributing around 12.3% to the country's GDP and generating nearly 37% of nonagricultural jobs, totaling approximately two and a half million jobs. This prevalence of informal activities is a consequence of long-standing structural issues in the Moroccan economy, including low economic growth rates, inadequate job creation, and a persistent rural-to-urban migration trend. In this context, the private sector, encompassing the informal sector, emerges as the primary source of employment, accounting for 91.3% of employment in 2014, excluding the agricultural sector. However, the participation of Moroccan women in the labor market remains notably limited, with an activity rate of 25.3% in 2014, compared to 72.4% for men. This gender disparity is influenced by social institutions and socio-cultural norms that often discourage women from active employment, favoring traditional domestic roles. This study delves into the intricate dynamics of Morocco's informal sector, its impact on the economy, and the challenges faced, particularly in the context of gender disparities in labor force participation