In Morocco, abortion is criminalised in nearly all circumstances. Under Article 453 of the Penal Code, abortion is permitted only if performed by a medical professional to save the woman’s life or physical health—and requires the husband’s or chief medical officer’s authorisation. All other cases are punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment for the woman and up to five years for providers. Women who seek abortions risk prosecution under provisions criminalising sexual relations outside marriage, further deterring them from seeking care.
These restrictive laws force women and girls—including survivors of rape—into clandestine and unsafe abortions. Daily, between 600 and 800 illegal abortions take place, many leading to severe health complications, long-term injuries, or death. Many who survive complications are unable to seek post-abortion medical care due to fear of prosecution.
There have also been tragic cases highlighting the deadly consequences. In September 2022, a 14-year-old girl died following a clandestine abortion obtained after rape—prompting domestic calls for legal reform. Despite these crises, the government has not responded with meaningful decriminalisation or access reforms; proposed legislative changes have stalled repeatedly.
We, Rights Defenders Initiative urge the authorities to fully decriminalise abortion to ensure accessible and safe reproductive healthcare for all women and girls. Moroccan laws should comply with international human rights obligations—respecting bodily autonomy, privacy, equality, and freedom from cruel or degrading treatment—and guarantee essential services without stigma or fear.
Refrence:
https://www.amnesty.org/en/petition/decriminalize-abortion-in-morocco/
