13 Weird Laws in Morocco
Unusual Laws in Morocco
Morocco is a country with its own set of unique laws and regulations. Some of these laws may seem peculiar or unusual to outsiders. In this section, we will explore two interesting aspects of the legal system in Morocco: press and speech restrictions and monarchy criticism taboos.
Press and Speech Restrictions
Morocco heavily restricts basic human rights, such as freedom of speech, the right to assembly, and the right to criticize officials. Freedom of the press is quasi-absent, and questioning the legitimacy of the monarchy or the actions of the King is taboo. In fact, questioning the kingdom’s “territorial integrity,” such as the annexation of Western Sahara, is illegal.
These restrictions have led to a lack of freedom of expression and freedom of the press in the country. According to the 2013 Press Freedom Index, Reporters Without Borders ranked Morocco 136 out of 179 countries, a significant drop from the 89th position the country held in 2002. Morocco has been considered, along with Tunisia, as one of the countries that sentences the most journalists to prison in the Arab world (Wikipedia).
Monarchy Criticism Taboos
In Morocco, it is a criminal offense to undermine the monarchy. Criticizing the King’s policy decisions or questioning his actions can have serious consequences. For example, in August 2023, a Moroccan resident of Qatar was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for criticizing the King’s policy decisions on Facebook.
These restrictions on monarchy criticism create a societal taboo, where openly discussing or questioning the actions of the monarchy is discouraged. It is important for both residents and visitors to be aware of these restrictions and exercise caution when discussing sensitive topics related to the monarchy.
While these laws may seem unusual to outsiders, they reflect the unique cultural and political context of Morocco. It is essential for individuals to respect and abide by the local laws and regulations while visiting or residing in the country.
For more information on weird laws in different countries, check out our article on weird laws around the world.
Social and Cultural Laws
Morocco is a country with its own unique set of laws, some of which may seem unusual or strange to outsiders. In this section, we will explore two social and cultural laws in Morocco: laws on homosexuality and dress code and behavior.
Laws on Homosexuality
One of the unusual laws in Morocco is the prohibition of homosexuality. According to Moroccan laws, homosexuality is considered illegal, and engaging in same-sex sexual activities can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment. It is also important to note that Moroccan law also prohibits sexual relationships between men and women who are not married, with potential jail time set for adulterers.
It is worth mentioning that while homosexuality is illegal in Morocco, there are reports that indicate that homosexuality is relatively common among men in the country (Rough Guides). However, it is important to respect and abide by the local laws and cultural norms when visiting or living in Morocco.
Dress Code and Behavior
Morocco has certain expectations when it comes to dress code and behavior. While there is no strict national dress code, it is generally advisable to dress modestly, especially in more conservative areas. This means avoiding revealing clothing, particularly for women, to show respect for the local customs and culture.
In addition to the dress code, it is important to be mindful of your behavior, especially as a foreigner. Women traveling in Morocco may experience different levels of sexual harassment, ranging from persistent chat-up attempts to direct solicitation for sex (Rough Guides). It is advisable to be cautious and assertive in setting boundaries if faced with such situations.
When visiting Morocco, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the local customs and norms to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. Being aware of the laws and cultural expectations regarding dress code and behavior can help you navigate the social landscape of the country.
By understanding the social and cultural laws in Morocco, including laws on homosexuality and dress code and behavior, you can ensure that you have a better understanding of the local customs and regulations, and approach your visit or stay in the country with respect and sensitivity.
Specific Legal Restrictions
Morocco has its fair share of unique and interesting laws that may seem unusual to outsiders. In this section, we will explore some specific legal restrictions in Morocco, including guide licensing laws, drone regulations, and religious restrictions.
Guide Licensing Laws
If you plan on exploring Morocco with the assistance of a guide, it’s important to be aware of the guide licensing laws. Unlicensed guides and Moroccans seen in the company of foreigners may face trouble from the police if they cannot produce a guide’s license, a marriage certificate, or a legitimate reason for being together. These laws aim to regulate the tourism industry and ensure that visitors receive accurate information and safe experiences during their stay.
While it’s not necessary for travelers to hire a guide, if you do choose to do so, make sure to verify their credentials and ensure that they possess a valid license. This will help you avoid any potential legal issues and ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Drone Regulations
If you’re a drone enthusiast planning to capture aerial footage in Morocco, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the country’s drone regulations. Flying drones in Morocco requires special permission from the Moroccan Civil Aviation Authority. Operating a drone without proper authorization can lead to fines and even passport confiscation.
To avoid any legal complications, it’s recommended to obtain the necessary permits and clearances before flying a drone in Morocco. This ensures compliance with local laws and regulations, allowing you to enjoy capturing breathtaking views while avoiding any legal consequences.
Religious Restrictions
Morocco has certain religious restrictions that visitors should be mindful of during their stay. When visiting mosques in Morocco, it is generally not allowed for non-Muslims to enter, except for a few exceptions such as the partially restored Almohad structure of Tin Mal, the Great Mosque at Smara, the sanctuary-mosque of Moulay Ismail in Meknes, and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca (Rough Guides). These restrictions are in place to maintain the sanctity and reverence of religious spaces.
Additionally, it is against the law to possess an Arabic copy of the Holy Bible in Morocco to prevent conversion attempts of Muslims to Christianity. It is also illegal to try and entice a Moroccan to leave Islam. It’s important to respect these laws and cultural norms while in Morocco to ensure a harmonious experience and avoid any legal complications.
While these specific legal restrictions may seem unusual to foreigners, it’s essential to be aware of and respect the local laws and regulations when visiting Morocco. By adhering to these laws, you can enjoy your time in the country while staying on the right side of the law.