Paths to Parity: Gender Progress in Moroccan Politics

Abstract

This article examines the progress and challenges of women’s political participation in Morocco, focusing on the interplay between legal frameworks, sociocultural dynamics, and institutional mechanisms. Through an analysis of constitutional reforms, electoral systems, and gender quotas, the study highlights Morocco’s advancements in gender parity, including increased representation in parliament (24.3% as of 2021 elections) and historic appointments of women to ministerial and mayoral positions. However, persistent barriers such as cultural stereotypes, economic constraints, and male-dominated party structures reveal the limitations of quota systems in achieving substantive equality. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative data, the article underscores the need for transformative interventions beyond numerical representation to ensure meaningful political influence for women. The findings contribute to broader discussions on gender equality in transitional democracies, offering insights into the complexities of balancing formal reforms with sociocultural change.