All you need to know about Morocco's new alternative penalties law and prison reform

Morocco has recently enacted two major legal reforms that aim to modernize its criminal justice system. The Alternative Penalties Law and Law No. 10.23 on the organization and management of prison institutions were both introduced in early 2024.

The Alternative Penalties Law seeks to expand the scope of alternative punishments for certain crimes with a focus on rehabilitation and community service rather than incarceration, applying to misdemeanors with sentences not exceeding five years.

However, serious crimes, recidivists, and offenses related to state security, terrorism, financial crimes, military crimes, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation are excluded from this law.

Alternative penalties under this law include community service, electronic monitoring, restriction of certain rights, control, treatment, or rehabilitation measures, and daily fines. These penalties are intended to provide a more humane approach to punishment for certain offenses.

Law No. 10.23 on prison institutions aims to reform the prison system, focusing on human rights, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates.

This law seeks a comprehensive review of existing prison regulations, prioritizing prisoner safety and well-being, protecting vulnerable groups such as women, children, and individuals with special needs, and promoting rights within prison institutions.

The law also emphasizes rehabilitation and reintegration programs, aiming to prepare inmates for a successful return to society after serving their sentences.

Hespress EN