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CNDH Celebrates Two Decades of Transitional Justice at Rabat Book Fair

Friday 10 May 2024 - 15:17

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The National Human Rights Council (CNDH) is marking a significant milestone at the 29th edition of the Rabat International Book Fair (SIEL), the 20th anniversary of the Equity and Reconciliation Commission (IER). Under the theme "Twenty Years of Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation," the CNDH pavilion showcases Morocco's journey through transitional justice.

This year's book fair features 13 intellectual seminars with 76 national and international participants, as well as 17 literary meetings. The CNDH pavilion is set to explore transitional justice, memory preservation, and emerging human rights issues through these events, fostering discussion and the exchange of perspectives.

Amina Bouayach, President of the CNDH, explained the significance of this year's theme: "It expands the celebration of Morocco's transitional justice experience." She added that the pavilion introduces visitors to the key elements of Morocco's transitional justice process, highlighting the legislative, constitutional, and institutional reforms that have emerged from this journey.

In addition to reflecting on the past, the CNDH aims to stimulate thought and discussion among a wide range of attendees, including creators, writers, authors, civil society, readers, youth, students, and children. As part of this effort, the council will host around 250 children from Morocco's twelve regions, giving them a chance to learn about the CNDH's work through its publications, annual and thematic reports, memoranda, and opinions.

Key discussion topics will include literature's role in contemporary tragedies, its use as a tool for change, and the promotion of cultural diversity. Notable authors from Morocco and across Africa, such as Abdelatif Laabi, Charline Effah, Tarek El Ariss, and Ahmed Hadashi, are expected to attend and engage with audiences.

Morocco's transition toward a constitutional monarchy in the 1990s marked a departure from its authoritarian past, paving the way for liberalization and reform. The Equity and Reconciliation Commission, established in the early 2000s, played a central role in this process, embodying Morocco's commitment to truth-telling and reconciliation.

Through acknowledgment, reparative measures, and institutional reforms, the IER offered hope to victims seeking recognition and redress, setting the stage for a broader focus on accountability and the prevention of future atrocities.

As the CNDH pavilion commemorates this milestone, it stands as a testament to Morocco's ongoing commitment to justice, reconciliation, and the preservation of human rights.