Morocco: adoption of an alternative sentencing bill to reduce prison overcrowding

The Moroccan Government adopted on Thursday Bill 43.22 on alternative sentencing, with the aim of alleviating overcrowding in prisons and increasing the level of human rights protection.

The authority to grant alternative sentencing will rest with the judge, who can impose penalties such as community service, electronic surveillance, or the restriction of certain rights.

Alternative sentences will only apply to offenders who have received a short-term prison sentence of five years or less, and committed certain crimes.