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The Economic, Social and Environmental Council of Morocco has called for a fundamental reexamination of Law No. 29.24, which aims to establish a National Agency for Child Protection. The council argues that the law requires a critical reassessment of its philosophy and objectives to align with Morocco’s comprehensive child protection policies.
Reassessing Child Protection Measures
In an advisory opinion requested by the Speaker of the House of Representatives on January 8, 2026, the council underscored the legislative project’s importance within the framework of constitutional requirements and Morocco’s international commitments, particularly regarding the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The proposed law intends to enhance the institutional framework for child protection by creating the National Agency for Child Protection alongside various centers for child welfare, catering specifically to vulnerable youth.
Concerns Over Limited Scope and Oversight
While commending the structural aspects of the proposal, the council noted multiple areas needing scrutiny to ensure more effective implementation. They pointed out that the agency’s title suggests an extensive mandate in child protection; however, its actual purview, as defined in Article 7, is mainly limited to managing protection centers and social welfare institutions, lacking sufficient outreach into crucial areas such as preventive measures and family support.
In light of these findings, the council recommended synchronizing the agency’s title with its actual responsibilities to accurately reflect its scope. Furthermore, they criticized the absence of a preliminary study as mandated by Framework Law No. 50.21, which pertains to the reform of public institutions. Such a study could have clarified the necessity of establishing this agency and assessed its potential financial impact on the state’s budget.
Legal Protections and Implementation Challenges
The council expressed concerns regarding the inadequate legal protections afforded to social welfare institutions for children. The draft law includes sanctions but lacks accompanying support mechanisms, risking the disengagement of stakeholders who are crucial for the success of this initiative. Additionally, the proposal includes nearly 20 references to regulatory texts without setting clear deadlines for their issuance, which could delay the law’s implementation and diminish its effectiveness.
Regarding transition periods, the council observed that stakeholders would have up to 24 months to comply with the law’s provisions, contingent on the issuance of associated regulations. They deemed these timelines insufficiently defined.
Strengthening Preventive Measures and Alternatives
In its recommendations, the council urged a reevaluation of the draft law based on a comprehensive prior study that could assess the agency’s feasibility. Should the agency be deemed necessary, they advocated for expanding its mandate to encompass prevention, monitoring, and alternative protective measures while enhancing its local and coordinating capacities.
Moreover, the council emphasized the importance of adopting a preventive approach in child protection and integrating alternative mechanisms in juvenile justice, such as community service, electronic monitoring, and therapeutic and educational interventions. This shift aims to prioritize the reintegration of children and ensure their protection within society rather than relying solely on punitive measures.
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The Moroccan Economic, Social, and Environmental Council calls for a reevaluation of child protection legislation to enhance effectiveness and align with international standards.
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Morocco’s Economic Council urges a critical reexamination of its child protection laws to better safeguard the rights and welfare of its most vulnerable citizens.
