Morocco’s Path to Ending Child Marriage: A Complex Journey
The issue of child marriage in Morocco is a complex one, deeply intertwined with cultural norms and legal frameworks. While progress has been made, the path to completely eradicating this harmful practice requires careful navigation of societal sensitivities and legal reform.
Recently, Morocco’s Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi, highlighted the intricate link between criminalizing child marriage and the need for amendments to the country’s Family Code. He emphasized that the ultimate decision rests upon a Royal Decree, underscoring the significance of this issue within the Moroccan context.
The current Family Code, adopted in 2004, represents a step forward from previous legislation. It raised the legal age of marriage to 18 for both men and women, a significant departure from the previous law that allowed girls to marry as young as 15. However, the Code includes exceptions that allow for marriage below this age with the authorization of a judge. This loophole, often justified on religious or social grounds, continues to leave young girls vulnerable to forced and early marriages.
The call to criminalize child marriage resonates with international human rights standards. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, ratified by Morocco, defines a child as anyone under the age of 18 and considers child marriage a violation of fundamental rights.
The detrimental effects of child marriage on girls are well-documented. It often robs them of education and economic opportunities, exposes them to domestic violence, and increases their risk of health complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Ending child marriage requires a multi-pronged approach.
Legal Reform: Amending the Family Code to remove exceptions for underage marriage is crucial. This sends a clear message that child marriage is unacceptable and provides legal protection for girls.
Empowerment of Girls: Investing in girls’ education and economic opportunities empowers them to make informed choices about their lives and futures.
* Community Engagement: Raising awareness about the harmful effects of child marriage within communities, engaging religious leaders, and promoting dialogue are essential for changing social norms.
Morocco’s journey towards ending child marriage is ongoing. While legal reform is a critical step, it must be accompanied by broader societal changes that empower girls and challenge traditional practices. By addressing the root causes and fostering a culture of respect for girls’ rights, Morocco can create a future where every child is free to reach their full potential.
