Urgent Call for Legal Framework
The National Union of Psychologists in Morocco has made a significant appeal to the Parliament, urging for the regulation and organization of the psychological profession. Through a legislative memorandum addressed to the President of the House of Representatives and members of Parliament, the union emphasizes the urgency of establishing a clear legal framework for the profession. This call comes against the backdrop of evolving social, economic, and cultural dynamics within Moroccan society, which have led to an alarming rise in mental health issues and associated vulnerabilities.
The memorandum references the provisions of the Moroccan Constitution, particularly those that guarantee the right to health, human dignity, social protection, and the freedom of labor organization. It stresses that legislative intervention is essential to create a legal framework that organizes the practice of psychology, safeguards the rights of service users, and upholds the dignity of the profession.
Addressing Regulatory Gaps
The union points out the existence of a regulatory void within the practice of psychology, primarily manifested in the absence of specific legal texts governing the profession. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of clear legal protection for the title of 'Psychologist,' the absence of mandatory licensing or registration systems, and the proliferation of unregulated practices. Moreover, there is no unified framework for ethics and professional accountability, which undermines public trust in psychological services.
According to the memorandum, this regulatory gap poses several risks, including violations of clients' rights and mental safety, confusion of roles between professionals and non-professionals, and a general erosion of public confidence in psychological services. The document highlights international comparisons, noting that many democratic systems recognize the importance of regulating the psychology profession. For instance, in France, the profession benefits from legal protection of its title, mandatory specialized academic training, and a national ethics code, alongside an active union role in advocacy.
In Canada, the profession operates under a mandatory licensing system with independent regulatory bodies and compulsory continuing education. Similarly, the United States employs national accreditation exams, mandatory registration, and detailed ethics codes, alongside direct legislative influence in public policy. The British model requires mandatory registration with a regulatory body and accredited academic programs, delineating clear specialties.
The union contends that Morocco's current situation necessitates the development of specific legislation to regulate the psychology profession, delineate practice conditions, establish a national professional registry, and define penalties for impersonation. Additionally, it calls for a complementary relationship with other health and social professions.
By establishing a legal framework, the organization believes that the quality of psychological services can be significantly enhanced, integrating psychologists into public health policies while protecting clients from unqualified practices. This would also support state efforts to prevent mental disorders and social vulnerabilities.
In light of these considerations, the memorandum proposes a parliamentary discussion on the regulation of the profession, the formation of a specialized legislative committee, and the incorporation of comparative experiences, involving professionals, universities, and relevant sectors to develop a comprehensive law that governs the practice of psychology.
As reported by assabah.ma.
