Equal Rights for Women in Morocco

Until recently, women simply didn't have the same rights as men in Morocco - but all of that has changed because of a new family code that was first announced by king Mohammed VI on October 10, 2003, and has been given unanimous approval by both chambers of parliament.

Arab News reports:

The new code places the family under the joint responsibility of the husband and the wife instead of the husband only and suppresses the stipulation submitting women to the guardianship of a male member of the family. ... The new Family Law uses a modern form of wording removing degrading or debasing terms for women. Thus, women become men's partners in rights and obligations, in accordance with the firm determination of His Majesty the King to ensure that women are treated fairly, to enhance the protection of children and to preserve the dignity of men.

Laura K. Lawless, About's Guide to French Language, has a nice summary of the changes which include allowing women to initiate divorce, allowing women to retain custody of children, and the sharing of property between men and women.

Read More:

• Recent Books on Islam
• Islam
• Morocco: 2003 Religious Freedom Report