Moroccan women reshape judiciary with rising leadership roles

Morocco’s judicial system is undergoing a transformative shift as women increasingly take on leadership roles across all court levels. Female judges now represent 27% of the country’s judiciary, a figure that continues to grow, reflecting Morocco’s broader commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Breaking historical barriers

Speaking during a training session for female judicial officials, Hicham Belaoui, Morocco’s Attorney General at the Court of Cassation and Chief Prosecutor, highlighted the expanding role of women in judicial leadership. He noted that 15 women currently hold senior positions within prosecutor’s offices, alongside presiding over courts at first and second instance levels and leading chambers in the Court of Cassation.

This progress marks a significant departure from the past. Morocco appointed its first female president of a court of first instance in 1998, a milestone that set the stage for the current wave of female judicial leaders.

Belaoui praised the “wisdom, seriousness, and solid legal competence” of female judges, emphasizing their vital role in promoting justice, fairness, and the values of equality.

Strategic vision for leadership

The Supreme Council of the Judicial Authority plays a key role in advancing gender equality. Its strategic initiatives have created equal opportunities for women and men in leadership positions, prioritizing merit and qualifications.

This growing confidence in women’s capabilities is reflected in their increased appointments to critical judicial roles. The shift demonstrates Morocco’s recognition of the unique contributions women bring to legal administration and decision-making.

Royal vision driving progress

Belaoui credited His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s leadership as central to the advancement of women in Morocco’s judiciary and public sectors. The King has long championed women’s empowerment, calling it essential to societal and economic progress.

In his 2018 address to the Global Summit of the “Women in Africa” initiative, King Mohammed VI argued that “no country, no economy, no society can meet the challenges of the times and invest all the energies it possesses without the role of women.”

This vision has catalyzed national efforts to increase female participation in governance, the legal system, and other sectors critical to Morocco’s development.

Building leadership through training

The training session for female judicial officials is part of broader efforts to prepare women for expanded leadership roles. These programs focus on equipping participants with the administrative and managerial skills necessary to excel in Morocco’s evolving judiciary.

The steady rise in female representation in Morocco’s justice system signals a broader societal shift toward gender equality. Women’s growing presence in the judiciary underscores their critical role in advancing fairness and excellence in public service.