The Moroccan Bar Association has announced that it will continue to suspend the provision of professional services by lawyers until October 7, 2026, but with a temporary suspension starting from that date. This decision was made after a meeting held at the association's headquarters in Rabat on September 20, 2026. The suspension is a protest against the law on the legal profession, which the association claims undermines the independence and autonomy of the profession.
The association stated that the temporary suspension of the work stoppage does not mean that they are backing down from their demands or accepting the disputed law. Instead, it is an opportunity for the new institutions to correct the imbalances in the legislative process and ensure the independence and self-management of the profession. The association also expressed its support for the new government and parliament, which will be responsible for implementing the country's major orientations.
The decision to temporarily suspend the work stoppage was made after more than four months of complete stoppage of work by lawyers in protest against the law on the legal profession. The association claims that the government has reneged on its commitments and targeted the acquired rights and symbolism of the profession. The temporary suspension of the work stoppage is seen as a gesture of goodwill to allow the new institutions to address the concerns of the legal profession.
The Moroccan Bar Association has also expressed its appreciation for the solidarity and determination of its members during the period of work stoppage. The association stated that it will continue to defend the rights and interests of lawyers and ensure the independence and autonomy of the profession. The temporary suspension of the work stoppage is seen as a strategic move to allow the association to regroup and prepare for future actions.
The law on the legal profession has been a contentious issue in Morocco, with lawyers and the bar association arguing that it undermines the independence and autonomy of the profession. The association has claimed that the law is an attempt to control and regulate the profession in a way that is not in line with international standards. The temporary suspension of the work stoppage is seen as a compromise to allow for further dialogue and negotiations.
The decision to temporarily suspend the work stoppage has been welcomed by some as a positive step towards resolving the crisis. However, others have expressed concerns that the suspension may be seen as a sign of weakness by the government. The association has stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and take further action if necessary to defend the rights and interests of lawyers.
The temporary suspension of the work stoppage by Moroccan lawyers is a significant development in the ongoing dispute between the legal profession and the government. The decision is seen as a strategic move to allow for further dialogue and negotiations, while also demonstrating the determination and solidarity of the legal profession. The outcome of the negotiations will have significant implications for the future of the legal profession in Morocco.
Key points
- The Moroccan Bar Association has decided to temporarily suspend its work suspension starting October 7, 2026.
- The suspension is a protest against the law on the legal profession, which the association claims undermines the independence and autonomy of the profession.
- The temporary suspension of the work stoppage is seen as a gesture of goodwill to allow the new institutions to address the concerns of the legal profession.
