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Morocco's National Human Rights Council President Urges Stronger Torture Prevention Measures
In a significant move towards bolstering human rights protections in Morocco, Amina Bouayach, President of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), has urged for a more robust implementation of the Istanbul Protocol within the country's legal framework. Speaking at a seminar focused on enhancing judges' human rights capabilities, Bouayach emphasized the critical role of the protocol in investigating and documenting allegations of torture and ill-treatment.
The Istanbul Protocol, recently revised in 2022, provides internationally recognized standards for addressing human rights violations. Bouayach highlighted seven key requirements outlined in the protocol, including the detection and documentation of torture allegations, adherence to principles of neutrality and independence, and the provision of guidelines for conducting interviews and psychological examinations.
Emphasizing the integral connection between the Istanbul Protocol and forensic medicine, Bouayach stressed the crucial role of forensic doctors in accurately documenting and scientifically evaluating signs of torture. She argued that their expertise is essential in providing judicial officials with precise, objective evidence necessary for protecting victims' rights and ensuring justice.
Bouayach called for significant legal reforms, proposing the integration of Istanbul Protocol principles into Morocco's criminal procedure code. She recommended that any allegation of torture should automatically trigger a medical examination, with individuals informed of their right to seek a counter-examination. Additionally, she suggested shifting the burden of proof in gender-based violence cases from victims to law enforcement authorities.
While acknowledging some progress in the current draft of the criminal procedure code, such as provisions for audio-visual recording during preliminary investigations and measures to protect victims of violence, Bouayach insisted that further enhancements are needed to fully align with the Istanbul Protocol's standards.
The CNDH president concluded by describing the Istanbul Protocol and forensic medicine as "two fundamental pillars in protecting human rights and combating torture and ill-treatment." She underscored their joint contribution to ensuring justice, compensating victims, and establishing rigorous and independent criminal procedures.
This call for reform comes at a crucial time for Morocco, as the country continues to grapple with human rights challenges. By advocating for stronger implementation of international standards, Bouayach aims to reinforce Morocco's commitment to human rights protection and position the nation as a leader in legal reform within the region.
As Morocco moves forward, the integration of these proposed measures could significantly enhance its human rights record, potentially serving as a model for other countries in the region. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these recommendations translate into concrete legal reforms, marking a new chapter in Morocco's journey towards stronger human rights protections.