63 MARTINDALE CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF PRIVATE ENTERPRISE Introduction Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue in Morocco as it is in many other Middle East and North Africa countries. Domestic violence (DV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) are the most commonly experienced forms of GBV by Moroccan women and girls, especially women between the ages of 15 and 74. In fact, as of 2022, 57.1% of all Moroccan women ages 15 to 74 had experienced physical, psychological, sexual, or economic violence in the previous 12 months (Haut-Commissariat au Plan, 2022). Furthermore, as of 2023, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development data indicate that Morocco is among the top ten countries with the highest rates of violence against women (VAW) (OECD, 2023). The issue of VAW in Morocco is not a recent development; for decades, there have been published statistics documenting the prevalence of VAW in the country, contributing to an elevated awareness of this phenomenon. Despite the critiques and counsel from prominent organizations like Human Rights Watch, the UN, and the local Moroccan NGO Mobilising for Rights Associates, the Moroccan government has yet to enact comprehensive legislation or establish effective social programs capable of addressing and sustainably preventing the persistent issue of GBV in the country. DV accounts for approximately 52% of all reported cases of VAW in Morocco, with 46% of the reported cases listing the victim’s husband or previous intimate partner as the abuser (Mobilising for Rights Associates, 2022). These statistics demonstrate just how inadequate current laws are, as marital rape is still not criminalized within the existing Penal Code. The sanction for those convicted of rape is 5 to 10 years in prison; the sentence is doubled if the victim is a minor (US Department of State, 2022). The efficacy of these sanctions has been limited, particularly because over 50% of GBV cases globally are unreported due to the victims’ reluctance or inability to report incidents of violence and abuse (Palermo et al., 2014). Throughout its history, Morocco has been a patriarchal society, meaning women are often unable to exercise the same agency as men and depend on their male counterparts for stability (Bouhout, 2020). This is especially true in rural communities, where poverty rates are high and female education remains extremely low (World Bank, n.d.). Factors such as education level, family income, age, and rural versus urban setting affect vulnerability to GBV (Kisa et al., 2021). Despite strong evidence of widespread GVB and vocal advocacy by high-profile international organizations, so far there have been no significant preventative systems put in place for women in more vulnerable Moroccan communities. Instead, there are only organizations focused on victim support following incidences of abuse; even then, these organizations do not have the capacity or sufficient support from the Moroccan legal system to be able to provide sustained care for victims. In these ways, Morocco consistently falls short in effectively combating GBV. There are numerous global and local NGOs dedicated to eradicating GBV and supporting victims in Morocco and in the Middle East and North Africa region more broadly. However, a core challenge lies in the Moroccan government’s failure to make the essential commitment required to prioritize legislation. Additionally, there is far more to be done outside the legislative realm. Social norms and religious beliefs hinder many Moroccans from being able to make Gender-based violence in Morocco Sarah A. Mixsell Gender-based violence is pervasive in Morocco, particularly affecting women ages 15 to 74, and is perpetuated by Morocco’s legal framework and societal norms despite efforts from international human rights organizations and local NGOs. This article examines its prevalence, emphasizing domestic violence and intimate partner violence. It proposes comprehensive solutions, including legal reforms, survivor protection, and educational initiatives to empower future generations. Prioritizing respect, equality, and empowerment can lead to a Moroccan society free from gender-based violence. doi:10.18275/pbe-v042-010
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