Morocco adopts new criminal procedure code to strengthen rule of law
Morocco has officially adopted Law No. 03-23, which amends and supplements the criminal procedure code, published in the Official Bulletin on September 8, 2025. The Ministry of Justice describes this reform as a major step toward strengthening the rule of law, modernizing the judiciary, and boosting public confidence in institutions, in line with the High Royal Directives.
The reform aims to modernize criminal policy and ensure effective and fair justice, reflecting the spirit of the 2011 Constitution, which emphasizes the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. Key improvements include strengthened guarantees for a fair trial, consolidation of defense rights, recognition of the presumption of innocence, and the right to a judgment within a reasonable timeframe, alongside expanded access to legal aid.
New safeguards for detainees include mandatory information on their rights, access to legal counsel, the use of interpreters when needed, and restrictions on preventive detention to strictly necessary cases, requiring justification for any incarceration and promoting modern alternatives.
Victims also benefit from expanded rights, including updates on legal proceedings, legal and social support, and specific protections for women and children. A National Crime Observatory will provide reliable data to guide criminal policy.
Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi highlighted the law as a strategic cornerstone for Morocco’s judicial reform, reinforcing the country’s commitment to the rule of law, democracy, and sustainable development. He emphasized that modernizing the judicial system will strengthen Morocco’s international appeal and support the Kingdom’s ambitions, including hosting the 2030 World Cup.
The new code forms part of a broader justice reform process, alongside updates to the penal code, modernization of legal professions, and digital transformation of courts. This comprehensive initiative positions Morocco as a regional pioneer in judicial modernization and supports the nation’s 2030 development vision.
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