Everything you need to know about the new Moroccan law on alternative punishments and prison reform

Morocco has recently implemented two major legislative reforms aimed at modernizing the criminal justice system. The Law on Alternative Punishments and Law No. 10.23 on the Organization and Management of Prisons were both introduced in early 2024.

The Alternative Sentencing Act is intended to expand the scope of alternative punishments for certain crimes. The emphasis is on rehabilitation and community service instead of imprisonment. The law applies to offences with sentences of up to five years.

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

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

Law No. 10.23 on Prisons aims to reform the prison system, with an emphasis on human rights, rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners.

This law aims to comprehensively overhaul existing prison regulations, prioritising the safety and well-being of prisoners, the protection of vulnerable groups such as women, children and persons with special needs, and the promotion of rights within prisons.

The law also places emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration programmes, which aim to prepare prisoners for a successful return to society after serving their sentences.

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