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Culture

Morocco's Human Rights Advancements Shine at Rabat Book Fair

Wednesday 15 May 2024 - 11:30

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The 29th International Book Fair in Rabat was not just a celebration of literature but also a forum for a profound discourse on Morocco's journey in human rights, both domestically and internationally. Hosted by the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), the panel discussion titled "Morocco's Presidency of the Human Rights Council: Morocco's Interaction with the United Nations System" illuminated the nation's steadfast dedication to advancing and safeguarding human rights.

Omar Zniber, Morocco's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office, lauded the CNDH's initiative, remarking, "I commend the National Human Rights Council for its insightful decision to organize a stand on Morocco's experience of transitional justice, a topic that I believe will deeply resonate in this space devoted to exchange, learning, reading, and culture."

Zniber underscored Morocco's enduring commitment to human rights, emphasizing that "the recognition garnered over several decades by the Kingdom of Morocco in terms of promoting and safeguarding human rights domestically, as well as within multilateral institutions... have been pivotal in justifying the trust of the African community and the broader international community in granting the presidency for this 18th cycle in 2024."

Khalid Ramli, the Director of International Affairs and Cooperation at CNDH, reiterated the significance of Morocco's presidency of the Human Rights Council, asserting that it was "not merely a product of effective diplomacy but also a acknowledgment of Morocco's unwavering endeavors in the human rights arena." He highlighted Morocco's ratification of 15 out of 18 human rights conventions, including six optional protocols, as evidence of its genuine commitment.

Moulay Lahcen Naji, President of the Independent Human Rights Authority in Morocco, placed Morocco's presidency within the broader context of the country's extensive human rights journey, tracing back to the establishment of institutions such as the Equity and Reconciliation Commission (IER) in 2004 and the reforms initiated under the 2011 Constitution.

Throughout the duration of the book fair, CNDH actively engaged with visitors through a diverse array of activities and events. Mornings featured special activities tailored for children aimed at educating and raising awareness about human rights in an interactive and captivating manner. In the afternoons, literary encounters and panel discussions provided a platform for profound discussions on various pertinent topics.

As Morocco assumes the presidency of the Human Rights Council, this panel discussion stands as a testament to the country's unyielding commitment to upholding human rights principles and fostering constructive dialogue on the international stage.