Comprehensive Reform on Morocco’s Family Code: A Step Forward for Women and Family Rights

Comprehensive Reform on Morocco’s Family Code: A Step Forward for Women and Family Rights

King Mohammed VI Sets a Deadline for Amendment Proposals

In a notable move towards the advancement of women and family rights, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has set a stringent deadline of six months for the submission of amendment proposals for the revision of the Family Code, also known as the Moudawana. This pivotal task of revision has been entrusted to the head of the government, indicating a substantial commitment to reform from the monarchy.

The preparation for this significant reform is a collective endeavor involving the Ministry of Justice, the Higher Council of Judicial Power, and the Presidency of the Public Ministry. Given the legal and judicial dimensions of the Family Code, their collective involvement is vital to ensure the proposed amendments are comprehensive and considerate of all aspects of the issue.

Participatory Consultations and Submission Process

The King’s instructions explicitly state that the amendment proposals should be the result of broad participatory consultations. These proposals, once drafted, should be submitted directly to the King, who stands as the guarantor of the rights and freedoms of the citizens. The maximum period of six months has been set to ensure timely progress, but also to ensure thoroughness in considering all aspects of the Family Code before the government drafts the bill for submission to Parliament for adoption.

Involvement of Key Institutions and Civil Society

King Mohammed VI has called on the aforementioned institutions to involve other bodies directly concerned with the Family Code in the reform process. These include the Higher Council of Ulema, the National Human Rights Council, and the Government Authority responsible for solidarity, social integration, and the family. This wide-ranging involvement suggests an inclusive approach, seeking the perspectives of diverse stakeholders. The King has also encouraged engagement with civil society, researchers, and specialists, emphasizing a participatory approach to this important reform.

Commitment to Advancing Women and Family Rights

This royal directive underscores the King’s ongoing commitment to issues related to women and the family, as stated in his 2022 Throne Speech. The proposed reform of the Family Code is a significant step forward in actualizing the royal decision announced by the King in his speech. The commitment to revision and reform suggests a potential for positive change in the status of women and family rights in Morocco.

Conclusion

The revision and reform of the Family Code in Morocco represent a significant move towards the advancement of women and family rights. With the setting of a strict deadline for amendment proposals, involvement of key institutions and civil society, and the King’s clear commitment to these issues, there is a strong potential for substantial progress. However, the final impact will depend on the quality and extent of the proposed amendments, the inclusivity of the drafting process, and the commitment of all parties to ensuring the rights and freedoms of women and families in Morocco.