Istiqlal backs family charter as Morocco prepares first integrated policy

Morocco’s Istiqlal Party has called for the adoption of a National Family Charter, saying stronger support for families should be at the heart of the country’s efforts to build a more inclusive social state.

Party Secretary-General Nizar Baraka said at a national conference in Rabat that public policies should adopt a unified, cross-sector approach that places families at the center of decision-making, replacing fragmented programs with a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening family stability and addressing Morocco’s growing social and economic challenges.

The party said Morocco is facing major social changes, including declining marriage rates, rising divorce rates, economic hardship, and new challenges linked to the digital world. It argued that these issues require a single, coordinated policy covering health care, education, housing, employment, and social protection.

As part of the plan, the party proposed creating “Family Houses” to provide family mediation, counseling, and psychological and social support. It also called for reshaping social support programs to focus more on helping families secure stable employment, access training, and start income-generating projects.

Baraka also stressed the need to increase women’s participation in the workforce by expanding childcare services and offering more flexible working arrangements to help balance work and family life.

 Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and Family Naima Ben Yahya said the government is preparing Morocco’s first integrated family policy. She also announced that a national care economy strategy will be launched on July 16, with the goal of creating about 1.5 million jobs by 2035.