Morocco sees historic drop in pretrial detention rates

Morocco has recorded a significant decline in pretrial detention rates, with the figure falling below 30% of the total prison population—an unprecedented milestone in the country’s judicial history.

The achievement was highlighted in a circular from Hicham Balaoui, Prosecutor General at the Court of Cassation and Head of the Public Prosecution. He attributed the decline to effective coordination between regional and local commissions, established under a joint directive from the Public Prosecution and the Supreme Judicial Council in June 2023.

Balaoui noted that while the reduction is a positive development, challenges persist—particularly during the summer months, when the number of pretrial detainees tends to rise due to staffing shortages caused by judicial vacations.

The circular urges prosecutors to continue treating pretrial detention as an exceptional measure, encouraging alternatives and restorative justice practices. It also calls for proactive coordination with court presidents to ensure timely case processing and avoid unnecessary delays.

Balaoui emphasized the importance of vigilant and periodic case monitoring and urged judicial actors to address any obstacles swiftly. He also encouraged strict adherence to the criminal policy guidelines that frame pretrial detention as a last resort.

This development reflects Morocco’s broader efforts to reform its justice system and balance public security with individual freedoms, while maintaining public trust in the rule of law.