RABAT, Morocco, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- Women in Morocco will gain more rights relating to marriage and divorce under a landmark reform proposed by King Mohammed VI.
The King said the measure, expected to be approved by parliament soon, is designed to end "the iniquity weighing on women".
Morocco's family law - or moudouana - has been one of the most hotly debated and divisive issues in the country in recent years, the BBC reported.
The King says under the existing the law, based on Islamic Sharia, husbands have been able to divorce their wives easily, and turn them out of the home. But it is very difficult for women to get out of abusive relationships.
Under his reform, women will get property rights within marriage, and both spouses will have equal authority in the family.
Divorce will be made easier for women, and the age of marriage for girls will be raised from 15 to 18.
Polygamy will not be outlawed but will be made more difficult - a man will need to get consent from his existing wife before marrying another.
