An article of the Moroccan penal code [article 490] penalizes all sexual relations out of wedlock and in the case of single mothers, it is always the woman who is held responsible for the situation (whether a consented pregnancy or result of a rape) because the biological father is absent. Furthermore, there is an order stating that maternity care staff are required to call the police if an unmarried mother arrives at the maternity ward. With the new Moudawana [Moroccan Personal Status Code], there are lawsuits, but in most cases they are not applicable.
This video highlights 4 examples of discriminations experienced by single mothers and their children, and calls for a fairer application of the laws and constitutional principles adopted by Morocco.
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