Morocco’s King Calls for Bold Reform of Family Code to Boost Women’s Rights

The king’s speech addressed several aspects of Morocco’s political, economic and social life. Thus, Mohammed VI called on all the constitutional institutions concerned with family and women’s rights to become more involved in the responsibilities that are theirs in this area for stronger actions on the ground.

For the sovereign, it is essential that the Moroccan woman play her full role in national development. "The tools and mechanisms are there and will have to be updated as well as the national legislation dedicated to the promotion of these rights." He recalled the efforts he has made since his accession to the Throne, in favor of the promotion and fulfillment of the Moroccan woman. Among the reforms undertaken, there is the promulgation of the Family Code and the adoption of the 2011 Constitution, which enshrines equality between men and women in rights and obligations. It is not a matter of granting privileges to women as a favor, but of enabling them to enjoy their most legitimate rights. "It is no longer possible for her to be deprived of them," he stressed.

The king stressed the need to reform the Family Code, which is currently facing obstacles that prevent the desired objectives from being achieved. He cites, among other things, the propensity of certain officials and men of justice who continue to think that the Code is reserved for women. He insists that the Code has been designed for the well-being of the family and should not be a tool reserved only for women. "It gives men and women the rights that respectively fall to them and it takes into account the interest of the children," he stressed.

While supporting the reform of the Code, Mohammed VI demands that the changes made to it be carried out in perfect harmony with "the ultimate purposes of Islamic Law (Sharia) and the specificities of Moroccan society, and ensure that it is imbued with moderation, open-mindedness in the interpretation of texts, a willingness to consult and dialogue." For the king, it is clear that the "sine qua non" condition for Morocco to continue to progress is that women occupy the place that belongs to them and that they make their efficient contribution to all the development sectors.