Morocco is set to introduce significant reforms to its family code for the first time in two decades, granting women greater rights over child custody, guardianship, and a veto on polygamous marriages.
This move marks a milestone in the ongoing efforts to address gender inequalities within Moroccan family law.
Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi announced that the draft code includes over 100 proposed amendments. Key changes would allow women to formally oppose polygamy in their marriage contracts. Without such opposition, polygamy would still face stricter conditions, including cases where the first wife is unable to have children.
The reforms aim to simplify and expedite divorce procedures, establish shared child custody rights for both parents, and ensure either spouse can retain the marital home after the other’s death. Additionally, divorced women will be able to maintain custody of their children even after remarriage.
The legal marriage age remains 18, with exceptions for underage marriage restricted to 17. While the Islamic inheritance rule—granting men twice the share of women—remains unchanged, individuals will now have the right to gift assets to female heirs. However, inheritance between spouses of different religions will only be permitted through wills or gifts.
King Mohammed VI emphasized that the revised code must reflect principles of justice, equality, and solidarity while aligning with Islamic teachings and universal values. The draft will now proceed to parliament for approval, with women’s rights advocates closely monitoring its progress.
