Rabat – Morocco’s Chamber of Representatives voted on Monday for Bill 30.22, amending Dahir 1.58.008 and increasing from 3 to 15 days the paternity leave of men working in the public sector.
Ghita Mezzour, Delegate Minister for Digital Transition and Administration Reform, said the bill is “the culmination of social dialogue” held between the government and union leaders back in April.
According to the amendments, male employees in the public sector will now get 15 days of paid time off when their partner gives birth. The bill also includes a paid leave of 15 days for any worker who supports a child under 24 months within the Kafala system.
Meanwhile, women who are supporting a child under 24 months old within the same system will get 14 weeks of fully paid time off.
Civil servants who give birth to, or have to support a child, will also benefit from a breastfeeding authorization for one hour a day, until the child reaches the age of 24 months.
Mezzour argued that the bill aims to preserve the rights of all civil servants, and help them achieve greater balance between their professional and personal lives.
The bill also comes as an additional step to fulfill Morocco’s obligations under international agreements, the minister said.
