Moroccan Human Rights Champion Amina Bouayach Receives '2024 Women Future Prize'

Tuesday 05 March 2024 - 15:46

In a prestigious ceremony held in Madrid, Amina Bouayach, the esteemed President of Morocco's National Human Rights Council (CNDH), was honored with the coveted '2024 Women Future Prize' by the Spanish-French Friendship Association. This accolade serves as a resounding recognition of Bouayach's unwavering commitment to the protection and promotion of fundamental human rights.

Representing Bouayach at the event, Morocco's ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich, graciously accepted the award during the 7th International Conference for Women and Diplomacy. Carmen Calvo, the President of the Spanish Council of State, presented the prestigious prize to the Moroccan ambassador, highlighting the significance of Bouayach's contributions.

Despite her absence, Bouayach expressed profound gratitude for the award, stating that it reflects Morocco's "constant commitment and progress in promoting human and women's rights." She humbly dedicated the prize to all women "who deserve our admiration for their daily struggle and to all those who need our support and recognition for their daily efforts in their fight for women's rights."

With palpable pride, Bouayach emphasized the honor of leading the CNDH, an institution that has played a pivotal role in shaping Morocco's human rights evolution. She stressed that her presidency of the council stands as evidence of "Morocco's willingness to allow women to access positions of responsibility for over two decades."

Bouayach's remarks underscored the transformative impact of Morocco's strides in empowering women, which have "undoubtedly contributed to the restructuring of Moroccan society and the relations between its different components." She emphasized the importance of women's empowerment as a shared responsibility, enabling women to forge a path towards equality as a pillar of North-South cooperation.

The jury of the event praised Bouayach's "exemplary journey," commending her relentless struggle for justice, equality, and human rights in Morocco. They expressed confidence that her dedication and determination would continue to inspire and resonate beyond the borders of her homeland.

This prestigious honor adds to Bouayach's remarkable achievements, as she was also awarded the North-South award by the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe earlier this year, further solidifying her status as a champion of human rights and gender equality.