In a landmark move towards social reform, Morocco recently hosted an essential session focused on revising the family code. The gathering, held on December 24, 2024, was led by The Moroccan King Mohammed VI, highlighting the importance of updating the country's legal framework to resonate with contemporary values and uphold human rights.
The family code, known as the Moudawana, has been a cornerstone of Moroccan family law since its last significant overhaul in 2004. However, there is a growing consensus among activists, lawmakers, and civil society groups that further changes are needed to address ongoing gender inequalities and bolster legal protections for women and children.
The session brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including legal experts, women's rights advocates, and representatives from various sectors. They engaged in vibrant discussions covering a broad spectrum of critical issues such as marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance laws. The goal was to reconcile differing views on these topics while ensuring that the family unit remains a robust and supportive element in Moroccan society.
A focal point of the debate was the need to eradicate discriminatory practices that disproportionately impact women. Current legal provisions still allow certain exceptions for child marriages, a practice many argue should be categorically banned. Moreover, disparities in inheritance rights were identified as requiring urgent reform to guarantee fair treatment regardless of gender.
Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi presented key proposals for the revision, highlighting the extensive consultation process that included contributions from civil society, religious scholars, academics, and political figures. The proposals featured raising the legal marriage age to 18, tightening regulations on polygamy, and ensuring equal access to marriage for individuals with disabilities.
Amina Bouayach, President of the National Human Rights Council, underscored the importance of aligning the laws with the lived realities of Moroccan society. "Our laws must reflect the principles of equality and justice for all citizens. Revising the family code is a crucial step towards achieving these goals," she asserted.
The session concluded with a strong commitment from the government to consider the recommendations put forward. The next steps involve drafting new legislative proposals and conducting extensive consultations with stakeholders across the nation. While the path to reform is intricate, the momentum generated by this session signifies a promising move towards a more equitable legal framework for Moroccan families.
As Morocco embarks on this journey of legislative renewal, the aim is to craft a family code that not only safeguards the rights of all its members but also propels the nation towards greater equality and justice.
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