HANAN HARITE

Morocco- Naima Khoushan, member of the Association Tildat, indicates that there are discriminatory articles against women in Morocco’s laws and that these laws must be amended according to today's conditions, taking into account social changes.

Calling for the amendment of Morocco’s family code, known as the Moudawana, she said, “If the family code is amended, it will have positive effects on women’s social status. Every reform in laws will ensure women’s human rights.”

‘Child marriage must be banned’

Morocco’s family code was amended in 2004. It raised the minimum age for marriage from 15 to 18; however, it allows the marriage of girls under 18 on the condition that their families obtain permission from a judge.

“The amendment of the family code is important to ensure justice because women and girls face discriminations in all facets of life. Child marriage must be completely banned. In addition, polygamy must be banned. Articles 20,21 and 22 of the family code must be repealed. These articles allow the marriage of girls under 18.

‘19 years have passed since the amendment of the family code’

In 2004, Morocco’s family code was amended after Moroccan King Mohammed VI ordered a new reform that might end child marriage, inequality in inheritance and other gender-based injustices. “19 years have passed since the amendment of the family code. Women’s organizations in Morocco demand a new reform in the family code. In September 2023, they called on the government to amend the family code.”