Morocco’s House of Representatives approved legislation on Monday establishing a national framework for managing stray animals, preventing related health risks and regulating the responsibilities of animal owners.
Bill 19.25 passed with 74 votes in favour and 21 abstentions. No lawmakers voted against the text.
Government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas said the legislation drew on international practices and standards issued by the World Organisation for Animal Health, including guidelines on animal health and welfare.
Speaking on behalf of the agricultuPre minister, Baitas said the law would create legal and institutional mechanisms for addressing stray-animal management, an area currently handled unevenly by municipalities and local authorities.
The legislation provides for a national database containing information on animals and introduces a declaration system intended to improve identification and monitoring.
It also defines the obligations of animal owners and custodians, although the detailed procedures and enforcement requirements are expected to be set through implementing regulations.
The law establishes a legal basis for creating and managing centres responsible for sheltering and caring for stray animals. It also identifies the authorities empowered to record violations and enforce the rules.
The government presented the measure as part of efforts to prevent diseases and other risks associated with uncontrolled animal populations while introducing clearer animal-welfare protections.
The text will not take effect immediately. Lawmakers approved a two-year implementation period, giving the government and local authorities time to establish databases, prepare shelters, issue regulatory texts and designate enforcement bodies.
The delay means the practical impact of the legislation will depend on whether municipalities receive sufficient funding, veterinary capacity and infrastructure to implement its requirements.
Animal-welfare groups have previously argued that any national policy must prioritise vaccination, sterilisation and humane shelter systems rather than relying mainly on the removal of animals from public spaces.
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