Experts Discuss Reforms to the Moroccan Family Code at Fes Symposium

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Fes News covered the national symposium held at the Faculty of Legal, Economic, and Social Sciences at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fes. The event, titled “The Moroccan Family Code: Between Evaluation and Reform,” brought together distinguished university professors, specialized researchers, and representatives of civil society.

In an exclusive statement to Fes News, Dr. Mohamed Bouzlaffa, Dean of the Faculty of Legal, Economic, and Social Sciences at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, emphasized that the symposium aligns with the university’s commitment to the national debate on reviewing the Family Code, particularly after more than two decades since its enactment. He added that this academic gathering, organized by the Iqlaa Law, Philosophy, and Society Laboratory in partnership with civil society representatives and the Private Law Researchers Club, aims to deepen discussions on proposed amendments while considering all components of the Moroccan family. This initiative follows the high royal directives calling for a review of the Family Code to ensure a balance between religious principles and societal developments.

Dr. Bouzlaffa also highlighted that the royal speech set a clear framework for this reform, reaffirming that the Family Code remains a cornerstone of the legal system while preserving religious constants. He stressed that universities have a significant responsibility in providing practical and realistic perspectives that contribute to the development of legal texts to ensure the rights of all family members.

Fes News followed the various presentations and academic discussions, which addressed several key issues. One of the most debated topics was the division of assets acquired during marriage and after divorce. Dr. Mohamed Ghazioul, a researcher at the Faculty of Sharia in Fes, noted that this issue has sparked ongoing controversy since the Family Code was adopted in 2004, particularly due to inconsistencies in the application of legal provisions governing this matter.

Another central topic was child marriage, a highly debated issue in the context of the upcoming reform. Additionally, the symposium examined the role of family mediation mechanisms as an effective tool for resolving disputes and fostering understanding between spouses, thereby strengthening family stability in Morocco.

Professor Abdelwahid Addafi, a researcher at the Faculty of Legal Sciences in El Jadida, stated that the symposium took place within the broader context of Morocco’s ongoing legislative reforms, particularly concerning the Family Code and related laws. He expressed hope that these amendments would enhance legal protection for Moroccan families, in line with the royal vision aimed at balancing modern needs with the nation’s religious and cultural values.

The symposium concluded with a strong call for continued academic debate on ways to develop the Family Code while considering Morocco’s evolving social landscape. Participants emphasized the importance of finding legal solutions that ensure justice for all family members while preserving Moroccan identity and adhering to the high directives of King Mohammed VI.

source : fesnews media

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