Significant Advances in Child Welfare in Morocco
In 2025, Morocco achieved remarkable strides in the realm of child protection and well-being, as detailed in UNICEF's annual report titled "Accompanying Structural Reforms Relating to Children's Rights." The international organization emphasized the enhancement of the national child protection system, which was bolstered through more coordinated mechanisms among social, judicial, and territorial institutions. This strategic approach aims to ensure that vulnerable children receive quicker and more effective assistance, marking a significant advancement in safeguarding their rights and welfare.
The report highlights an impressive increase in the number of integrated child protection devices, which rose from 23 to 50 within just one year. This expansion has not only broadened national coverage but has also improved the tracking of cases through digital tools that are already operational in various regions. UNICEF celebrated a "historic moment" in June 2025 when Moroccan children participated directly in the preparation of a report presented to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child. A total of 372 children from diverse regions of the kingdom took part in this initiative, including 186 girls, marking a significant step towards inclusive representation.
Continued Support and Judicial Reforms
The organization also underscored the ongoing efforts following the Al Haouz earthquake in 2023, which had a profound impact on the affected provinces. More than 3,650 children received psychosocial support and specialized assistance through programs coordinated between local authorities, associations, and UNICEF. The report further indicates that over 27,000 minors benefited from protection services in 2025, including migrant children and those in situations of mobility, ensuring their access to healthcare, education, housing, and psychological support.
Another notable change highlighted by UNICEF was the transformation of the Moroccan juvenile justice system towards a more restorative and less punitive approach. Over 367 judges, prosecutors, police officers, and social workers participated in training programs focused on alternative measures, enabling 81% of minors in conflict with the law to receive alternative sentences aimed at social reintegration and the protection of their rights. This progressive shift not only fosters a more compassionate legal framework but also enhances the overall welfare of children within the judicial system.
As reported by marruecom.com.