Morocco’s recently introduced significant reforms to its Family Code blend modern legal standards with traditional values, according to French political scientist Christophe Boutin, 2M reported.
King Mohammed VI spearheaded the recent proposed changes, the second major reform effort since 2004. The reforms tackle key issues such as the minimum age of marriage, spousal rights regarding divorce, and child custody issues.
Boutin, a law professor at the University of Caen-Normandy, praised Morocco’s approach, noting that the reforms strengthen gender equality while respecting cultural identity.
He asserted that the amendments are in accordance with international human rights standards and reflect Morocco’s leadership in regional family law reforms.
The government announced the formation of a drafting committee to finalize the revisions. Key proposals include setting the minimum age of consent for marriage at 18, with certain limited exceptions, and requiring husbands to consult their wives during the initial marriage registration process on agreed upon conditions for taking additional wives.
Other changes focus on divorce mediation, shared child custody, and financial transparency, as well as recognizing “domestic labor” as a contribution to family wealth. The reforms are intended to protect children’s rights, streamline legal processes, and ensure fairness in inheritance and spousal gifts.
By modernizing its Family Code, Morocco seeks to address contemporary challenges while upholding its cultural heritage.