CNDH Advocates for Equitable Urban Development in Morocco

Saturday 20 July 2024 - 12:44

The National Human Rights Council (CNDH) of Morocco convened its third “Agora of Human Rights” session today, tackling the pressing issues and prospects associated with the nation's rapidly expanding urban landscapes.

Under the theme “The Right to the City and the City of Rights: Challenges of Emerging Cities,” the event highlighted the urgent need for inclusive urban development strategies that balance human rights with economic advancement.

Mustapha Laarissa, a prominent member of the CNDH, championed the “right to the city” concept, underscoring its role in safeguarding essential human rights such as access to housing, healthcare, education, and a healthy environment within urban planning.

“Today, the CNDH has united a diverse group of researchers and experts to discuss the right to the city and the city of rights, particularly in the context of emerging cities,” Laarissa remarked. “This discussion is vital given Morocco's ongoing transformations, especially in urban planning and ensuring the right to housing.”

The session’s timing is critical as Morocco navigates the complexities of accelerated urbanization. Emerging cities, while pivotal as economic and social centers, confront considerable challenges.

Key issues discussed included ensuring equitable access to basic services like water and sanitation, encouraging civic participation in urban planning decisions, and safeguarding the environment.

“A ‘city of rights’ is one that upholds these fundamental rights,” Laarissa explained. “This session is part of the CNDH's broader strategy to transform rights from theoretical concepts into concrete realities for all citizens.”

Through this dialogue, the CNDH aims to achieve several objectives. Notably, it seeks to illuminate Morocco’s urban development and human rights experiences, drawing comparisons with international best practices.

The session also aims to pinpoint effective strategies for creating sustainable urban spaces that honor human rights. The CNDH aspires to weave the “right to the city” principle into urban planning policies, ensuring future development is not only economically viable but also socially inclusive, thereby allowing all residents to benefit from urban opportunities.

By fostering such discussions, the CNDH continues to advocate for urban development that respects and promotes human rights, striving to create cities that are equitable for all.