Debate rekindled over women’s political representation in Morocco amid National Human Rights Day

Each year in May, as Morocco marks the National Day of the National Human Rights Council, public discourse intensifies around key human rights issues—including the role of women in political and institutional life.

Central to the ongoing debate is the quota system for women’s political representation.

Supporters argue it remains a necessary tool for gender inclusion, while critics question its effectiveness and warn it may entrench marginalization rather than promote true equality.

Human rights advocate Saïda El Idrissi said the quota system remains the only viable entry point for many women into politics, a field still dominated by financial and political elites.

Speaking to Hespress, El Idrissi criticized the lack of institutional safeguards surrounding the quota, noting that female representation is often subject to political deal-making.

“In some years women may be allocated 60 seats, in others only 20—or none at all,” she said, adding that decisions rest largely with party negotiations, despite oversight by the Interior Ministry.

She also pointed to structural flaws, such as the shift from national women-only lists to broader regional lists, which she says have failed to deliver meaningful access to leadership roles.

El Idrissi highlighted the scarcity of female party leaders in Morocco, noting that only one woman currently holds such a position—and even she is under male supervision.

In rural areas, she said, the exclusion of women from electoral lists is often casually justified with remarks like “we couldn’t find anyone,” despite evidence of female political engagement.

El Idrissi called for a gender parity law and the adoption of a “zebra list” system, alternating men and women on electoral lists to ensure balanced representation.

Rajaa Battach, a political science researcher and youth member of the Istiqlal Party, said gender imbalance in politics is a global issue, not unique to Morocco. She cited the example of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, arguing that even in the United States, society has yet to fully embrace the idea of a female president.

Battach stressed that political disengagement among young women is also part of the problem. “Many young women today are indifferent to politics and don’t follow its developments,” she said, adding that this detachment reflects a deeper disconnect between youth and public life.

She emphasized the need to encourage women to participate actively in political parties, build experience, and demonstrate leadership.

“Empowerment doesn’t come through slogans,” she said. “It’s achieved through presence, competence, and influence within decision-making circles.”