Criminal Procedure Reform in Morocco: Bill No. 03.23 Presented to Parliament
Proposed Reforms in Morocco’s Criminal Justice System: A Step Towards Modernization
On January 22, 2025, the Minister of Justice presented Bill No. 03.23 to the Justice, Legislation, and Human Rights Commission in the House of Representatives. This bill aims to reform the criminal procedure in Morocco, developed in alignment with the High Directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The overarching goal is to modernize the justice system while ensuring the protection of fundamental rights.
Among the key innovations introduced by this bill are:
- Ensuring a Fair Trial: Lawyers will be present from the moment of police custody, and interrogations will be recorded to enhance transparency.
- Protecting Victims and Minors: Psychological and legal support will be established for victims, with enhanced protections for children.
- Combating Crime: The bill proposes the use of advanced technologies and strengthens international cooperation to tackle organized crime.
- Simplifying and Accelerating Justice: The use of conciliation will be broadened, and digital tools will be deployed to expedite judicial procedures.
In conclusion, the minister emphasized that this bill marks a crucial step toward modernizing the Moroccan judicial system. "This text represents much more than a technical reform. It embodies a bold vision and a promise of a modern justice system that is close to citizens, capable of protecting the most vulnerable while effectively combating threats facing our society. It is a solemn commitment to a justice system that serves everyone," he stated.
