Morocco's Human Rights Champion Awarded Prestigious Mediterranean Prize

Saturday 11 January 2025 - 08:04

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco's Human Rights Champion Awarded Prestigious Mediterranean Prize

In a significant recognition of her dedication to human rights advocacy, Amina Bouayach, President of Morocco's National Human Rights Council (CNDH), has received the 2025 Mediterranean Foundation Award. The ceremony, held in Naples, Italy, celebrated her outstanding contributions to promoting human rights both in Morocco and on the international stage.

The Mediterranean Prize, established by Italian sculptor Mario Molinari, stands as a symbol of peace and coexistence between nations. Foundation President Michael Capasso, along with international jury members and Professor Abdelhak Azouzi, commended Bouayach's extensive work in advancing equality, justice, and fundamental freedoms.

Bouayach, who hails from the northern Moroccan city of Tetouan, has built an impressive career spanning human rights advocacy and diplomacy. Her appointment as CNDH president by King Mohammed VI in 2018 followed years of dedicated work championing women's and children's rights. Her influence extends beyond Morocco's borders through her roles as Vice-President of both the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions and the International Federation for Human Rights. Prior to her current position, she served as Morocco's Ambassador to Sweden and Latvia.

During her acceptance speech, Bouayach highlighted Morocco's recent human rights initiatives, including the country's historic vote supporting a universal moratorium on the death penalty. She particularly emphasized proposed reforms to Morocco's family code, which aim to strengthen women's rights by recognizing their household contributions in marital property distribution.

"This distinction, while touching me as a woman and activist, is primarily a tribute to my country, Morocco, for its unwavering commitment to the universal values of dignity, justice, and equality," Bouayach remarked during the ceremony.

She offered a broader perspective on the Mediterranean region, describing it not merely as a geographical area but as a cradle of shared history and cultural convergence. While acknowledging regional challenges such as conflicts and climate change, Bouayach emphasized the Mediterranean's rich heritage of diversity and its potential for fostering renewed dialogue.

The CNDH President particularly highlighted the crucial role of women in driving social and political transformation across the Mediterranean region, especially in Morocco. She concluded her acceptance speech with a powerful dedication: "I dedicate this award to all Mediterranean women who, every day, build bridges between cultures and generations."

This award underscores Morocco's ongoing commitment to human rights advancement and recognizes Bouayach's significant contributions to promoting dignity, justice, and fundamental freedoms across the Mediterranean region.