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Single mothers and their kids fight stigma in Morocco

Anke Rasper | Dunja Sadaqi | Carla Reiter
April 12, 2023

Unwed mothers and their children are ostracized by society and stigmatized by their own families. Many women and children end up in desperate situations. But a growing number of people are trying to end this dire situation, both in courts and in society as a whole. Many young people say its time for change. But there's still a long way to go.

https://p.dw.com/p/4Pxr6

When women in Morocco become pregnant without being married, they face major problems. And so do their children. Sex before marriage is taboo in the Islamic country - and while society does not hold men accountable for this, single mothers can even be prosecuted.

At the same time, abortion is illegal. And furthermore, when a child is born out of wedlock, the mother cannot expect any support from the father or the state. 

But a growing number of people and organizations are fighting to end this stigma - both in the courts and in society as a whole. And many young people feel it's time for change.

Reporters: Dunja Sadaqi and Carla Reiter

Presenter: Elliot Douglas

Anke Rasper
Anke Rasper Anke is a senior editor with DW's environment team.
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