Latest news with #Bouayach
Ya Biladi
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
Rif separatist party joins Polisario campaign against Bouayach's Mandela Prize nomination
A separatist party from Morocco's Rif region has joined the Polisario's campaign opposing the nomination of Amina Bouayach, president of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), for the 2025 Nelson Mandela Human Rights Prize awarded by the United Nations. In a statement issued from Paris, the self-proclaimed «Rif Nationalist Party» voiced strong opposition to Bouayach's candidacy for the prestigious award. The party described the nomination as «a grave insult to the memory and legacy of Nelson Mandela, a global symbol of the fight against injustice, torture, and oppression», alleging that the Kingdom of Morocco continues to commit serious human rights violations with impunity, particularly in the Rif region and the disputed Sahrawi territories. After laying out a detailed denunciation of the CNDH president's record, the party called on the Nelson Mandela Prize Committee to reject the nomination and «preserve the moral integrity of this prestigious award». It is worth noting that the «Rif Nationalist Party» previously echoed the Polisario's accusations against Morocco in January regarding the fire at the Danish NGO Global Aktion's headquarters. A coalition of associations in South America has also joined the Polisario's campaign against Bouayach's candidacy for the 2025 Nelson Mandela Prize.
Morocco World
08-05-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
35 Years of CNDH: Morocco Reaffirms Commitment to Human Rights
Rabat – 35 years ago, Morocco took a bold step. Long before global standards emerged, the country established its first national human rights institution on May 8, 1990, laying the groundwork for what would become a key pillar in its governance landscape. This week, the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) marks that turning point. The anniversary speaks not only to the passage of time, but to the country's steady shift toward greater accountability, justice, and rights protection. The Council's president, Amina Bouayach, sees this moment as more than symbolic. 'We are looking back on a path of transformation, but also of construction. Morocco changes constantly, so must we,' she said. What began as a modest advisory body has grown into a constitutional institution with regional branches and a far-reaching mandate. Since 2018, the Council has operated with expanded powers to address violations, support victims, and defend freedoms. Morocco had already taken this path in the early 1990s, three years before the UN adopted the Paris Principles that define how human rights institutions should function. That early move, Bouayach said, reflected a national decision to address past abuses and build a system based on truth, justice, and reconciliation. The country marked the 20th anniversary of that process earlier this year. Over the years, the Council has played a role in major reforms: from restructuring the justice system and revising the Constitution to observing elections and launching discussions around Morocco's Family Code. 'We are not outside of national dynamics, we stand in the middle of them,' Bouayach explained. Under the slogan '35 Years: Rights. Freedoms. Effectiveness', the Council plans to mark the anniversary throughout 2025. The goal is to reinforce the rule of law, support victims where needed, and ensure that rights do not remain theoretical but become real and enforceable. Morocco's human rights body asserts that it stands on principles of independence and accountability. But it also carries a story, one of political will, institutional learning, and the belief that no reform holds weight unless it protects human dignity. Tags: CNDHCNDH Morocochuman rightsmorocco human rights
Morocco World
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Bouayach: Reparative Justice Must Address Africa's Past and Present Wounds
Rabat – In a renewed call for dignity and justice, Amina Bouayach, President of Morocco's National Human Rights Council (CNDH), delivered a compelling address on April 30, at the closing session of the African NGO Forum, hosted in Banjul, The Gambia. Speaking via video, Bouayach urged a comprehensive rethinking of 'reparative justice' to address the enduring legacies of slavery, colonialism, and exploitation across the African continent. 'Africa has carried for centuries the burden of an unjust system,' Bouayach said, referring to how human exploitation — through slavery and colonial rule — fueled global wealth at the expense of Africa's suffering and impoverishment. She stressed that historical injustices — such as slavery, human trafficking, and colonial domination — stripped entire generations of their fundamental rights and left deep, lasting wounds. These injustices, Bouayach noted, continue to affect African societies and the diaspora, which she described as 'a living memory of historical suffering' and ongoing victims of global injustice. Highlighting the complexity of reparations, Bouayach pointed to three key challenges: defining responsibility, ensuring feasibility, and clarifying the ultimate goal. She warned that financial or symbolic reparations alone are insufficient to heal historical trauma or address systemic inequality. Instead, she advocated for a long-term, inclusive approach rooted in structural reform. Reparative justice, she emphasized, must actively involve affected communities and recognize their agency. Their inclusion is not only essential but also a formal acknowledgment of the rights denied to them for centuries. Drawing from transitional justice experiences in Africa and Latin America, Bouayach noted that reparative justice mechanisms are feasible and effective when designed with intention and inclusivity. She framed reparations as a process of rebuilding societies on the basis of equality, dignity, and shared responsibility. ' Justice today must go beyond symbolic gestures,' Bouayach added, focusing on the need for economic justice at the heart of reparations. She proposed targeted development programs for historically marginalized communities and support for African-led initiatives across the economic, cultural, and social sectors — both on the continent and in the diaspora. In conclusion, Bouayach highlighted the central role of national human rights institutions and civil society organizations. She called them vital actors in documenting the ongoing impact of historical crimes and advancing demands for recognition, redress, and guarantees of non-repetition. Their work, she said, is key to amplifying victims' voices and shaping concrete reparative frameworks. This year's African NGO Forum took place over three days in Banjul, The Gambia, offering a platform for civil society, academics, and policymakers to collaborate on strategies for advancing reparations at all levels. Discussions focused on topics such as modern-day slavery, gender-based approaches to reparations, international advocacy, and the institutionalization of human rights-based reparative mechanisms. Tags: Amina BouayachCNDHhuman rights
Morocco World
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Morocco World
CNDH Pavilion Wraps Up Successful 30th Book Fair Participation
Rabat – Morocco's National Council for Human Rights (CNDH) wrapped up its activities at the 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair today. Over ten days, the pavilion became a space for discussions, workshops, and Moroccan cultural expressions that captivated thousands of visitors. The fair brought together 250 children from across Morocco's 12 regions, along with 100 writers, human rights advocates, and cultural figures from both Morocco and abroad. These participants engaged in 70 activities spread across five specialized spaces designed for open dialogue and cultural exchange. 'We express our gratitude to the children, the activists, and the visitors for their incredible engagement with our daily programming,' said the President of the CNDH in a press statement. 'For ten days, we all celebrated the richness of Moroccan culture and its profound role in promoting human rights and development.' The CNDH chose to focus on Morocco's cultural diversity this year, shining a light from the country's Arab-Islamic, Amazigh, Sahrawi, Jewish, Mediterranean, and African influences. 'We believe these cultural expressions can strengthen social cohesion and openness, while reflecting respect for identity, dignity, and collective memory,' the CNDH president continued. The National Council's participation in open national events, such as the book fair, has always aimed to foster a spontaneous interaction with visitors, particularly children, parents, and families, on important human rights topics. 'For us, the fair was a chance to further promote a culture of human rights and freedoms,' Bouayach noted. 'We were pleased with the insightful questions, suggestions, and the growing awareness around pressing issues.' The pavilion's programming included a wide range of cultural and educational activities. From the iconic character Hadidan, which introduced visitors to Morocco's cultural heritage, to performances by children who expressed their views on rights and the right to culture through stories, poetry, theater, music, and humor. Discussions also focused on topics such as the right to the city and the universality of human rights, illustrating the power of culture in advancing these causes. The CNDH pavilion hosted more than 30 workshops for children, alongside 11 thought-provoking seminars on subjects like rock heritage, writing in prisons, cinema and human rights, and the role of culture in advancing rights. These seminars also explored the creative industries, the value of heritage, cultural diversity, public policies in the cultural sector, and the role of media in promoting human rights. In total, the pavilion served as a lively platform for more than 70 diverse activities. In keeping with its inclusive approach, the CNDH ensured the pavilion was accessible to all. Sign language interpretation was provided for all seminars and meetings, pathways were designed for the blind and visually impaired, and facilities were tailored to accommodate everyone. All activities were broadcast live, making them accessible to a wider audience. 'We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of our pavilion,' said Bouayach. The National Council for Human Rights looks forward to continuing its advocacy and fostering a culture of freedom and rights at the 31st edition of the fair. With more than 775 exhibitors representing 51 countries, this landmark edition of SIEL placed Rabat at the forefront of international literary exchange. Tags: CNDHhuman rightsmorocco CNDHSIELSIEL 2025
Morocco World
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Morocco's CNDH at SIEL 2025 Shapes Words as a Battleground for Human Rights
Rabat – The International Publishing and Book Fair (SIEL) in Rabat this year provided a dynamic space for discussing pressing human rights issues as the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) marked the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This milestone prompted the CNDH to gather thinkers, activists, and artists to debate the relevance of the Universal Declaration in today's rapidly changing world, under the discussion of their collective book titled 'Is the Universal Humanist Ideal Unfulfilled?' The panel focused not only on historical challenges but also on emerging ones, such as the impacts of climate change, digitalization, and sustainability. The contributions to a collective book produced for the occasion mirror diverse global perspectives on human rights, which sparked intense conversations about what has been achieved and what still needs to be done. CNDH's president on the roadblocks to progress Amina Bouayach, CNDH President, stood at the heart of these discussions and reflected on the current state of human rights globally. When asked about her contributions to the collective book and how things have changed since the 2022 CNDH human rights symposium, Bouayach did not hold back in pointing out the systemic barriers that persist. 'Since 2022, it has become clear that the human rights system faces severe challenges. These are not just ideological; they have become issues of funding and resources,' Bouayach stated, her tone serious. 'A 40% decrease in UN funds for human rights tells us a lot about the global priorities. This is a direct attack on human rights, particularly in the Global South.' Her words, underlining the complex nature of the struggle for human rights, resonated deeply. Bouayach also pointed out that these financial cutbacks threaten to marginalize efforts to protect vulnerable populations and undermine the work being done in Morocco and beyond. However, Bouayach was not entirely pessimistic. She acknowledged the efforts being made, noting that while challenges remain, 'there are dynamic actions underway to improve the human rights situation.' Morocco, she emphasized, continues to reaffirm its commitment to human rights. Women in the margins Cameroonian writer Djaili Amadou Amal also contributed to the collective book, bringing attention to the plight of women in her country and across Africa. When asked about her perspective on the feminine condition, Amal made a powerful statement about the struggles women face daily. 'Women have waited too long for change,' she lamented. 'When instability hits, women and girls are the first to suffer. And these are not just abstract figures – these are real lives, real tragedies.' Amal also drew attention to the troubling rise in forced and early marriages, a practice that continues to grow in many parts of the world. For Amal, the violence against women is not just physical, it is structural. 'Violence against women breeds other forms of violence. It is a societal issue that cannot be ignored,' she explained. She noted that without securing a rightful place for women in society, no country can achieve true progress. 'A society cannot develop unless women are given their rightful place,' Amal concluded, her words a powerful call to action for the future. Human rights revisited Mohammed Benmoussa, a Moroccan economist and researcher, took a more reflective approach, analyzing the origins of the human rights system. He pointed out that the expectations of the Universal Declaration, created in 1948, were somewhat utopian, especially when compared to today's harsh realities. For him, the key challenge now is not just respecting human rights but ensuring their practical application. 'The Universal Declaration set high expectations, but we are still facing issues of implementation. The main axes of human rights, respect, protection, and the guarantee of rights, remain elusive for many,' Benmoussa noted. He called for greater transparency and accountability from all stakeholders involved in human rights advocacy. 'Institutions must be held accountable, and public policies need to be applied effectively to move forward.' Culture as a driver of human rights At the CNDH booth, Mustapha Najmi, the Director of the Promotion of Human Rights at CNDH, shared the organization's broader vision for human rights engagement through cultural initiatives. 'This year, we chose culture and cultural expressions as a way to promote human rights,' Najmi explained during a conversation with Morocco World News (MWN). 'Culture can be a driver of development and a powerful tool for advocating human rights.' Najmi noted the inclusion of children in the CNDH's program at SIEL, noting that these young participants come from Morocco's twelve regions. Each day, they have the opportunity to express themselves creatively through art and literature, reinforcing the connection between culture and the promotion of human rights. In the afternoons, the booth offered various performances and discussions, including music from the Gharnati and Andalusian traditions, as well as slam poetry. These cultural expressions, Najmi believes, play a crucial role in advancing human rights by encouraging dialogue and fostering mutual understanding. 'The importance of cultural diversity and pluralism cannot be overstated,' Najmi continued. 'It's through these cultural expressions that we can engage in a meaningful conversation about human rights and what needs to be done to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, enjoys these rights.' A call to renew human rights efforts As the discussions at SIEL 2025 unfolded , it was clear that while significant strides have been made, the journey toward full realization of human rights remains long and fraught with challenges. Bouayach's final words summed up the mood of the event: 'Cultural diversity and pluralism allow us to come together, to shape a more inclusive world. It is up to all of us to renew our commitment to human rights, now more than ever.' Through panels, cultural initiatives, and the collective contributions of activists, scholars, and artists, the CNDH continues to lead efforts to ensure that human rights are not just ideals, but realities lived by all. The convergence of these powerful conversations under the roof of SIEL's 30th edition fair serves as a reminder that literature is far more than a vehicle for storytelling, as it is a space where rights, identity, and resistance unfold. At this intersection, words carry the weight of lived experiences, challenge systems of injustice, and imagine alternative futures. Whether through Amadou Amal's urgent reflections on women's rights or through the poems and performances featured at the CNDH booth, literature becomes a witness, a refuge, and a form of action. Culture is not an accessory to human rights, it is their foundation. And in the context of a book fair, where readers and writers meet, this truth becomes impossible to ignore: every page read and every story shared can open the way for greater justice. This year's SIEL welcomed over 253,000 visitors during its first seven days, marking a 39% increase compared to the previous edition. Tags: Books and human rightsCNDHCNDH SIELhuman rightsSIELSIEL 2025
