25-03-2025
CNDH Chief Shares Morocco's Human Rights, Gender Reforms with UK Parliament
Rabat – Amina Bouayach, President of Morocco's National Human Rights Council (CNDH), outlined the country's comprehensive approach to human rights and gender reform over the past two and a half decades during a session at the UK Parliament on Monday.
In her remarks, Bouayach explained Morocco's unique path to progress, with a focus on key principles that have guided major reforms in various areas of governance, law, and gender equality.
She explained that the country's human rights strategy is built on three main pillars: consensus, innovation, and participation. These values have shaped the country's legal and institutional transformations, from its efforts in transitional justice to constitutional amendments that enshrine universal rights and freedoms, she said.
She also recalled significant reforms, such as the 2004 Family Code and its ongoing revision that started in September 2023, saying it reflects a commitment to continuous improvement in gender equality.
Bouayach said that the code was a historical turning point for women's rights in the region, adding that it was made possible by the visionary leadership of King Mohammed VI.
As for the ongoing review of the Moudawana, which aims to address existing challenges and promote further gender equality, it is set to introduce other significant reforms, such as constitutional guarantees of gender equality, anti-violence laws, and women's growing participation in politics, CNDH president added.
At the core of Morocco's reform model, according to Bouayach, is the alignment of the state and society in a dynamic, continuous dialogue. She said that the country's success lies in a participatory process, where all stakeholders, across Morocco's 12 regions, are involved in creating solutions that are deeply rooted in the social and cultural fabric of the country.
Bouayach pointed out that instead of seeking quick fixes, Morocco prioritizes consensus-building among all parties by creating solutions tailored to its national context. Innovation is also a central element to ensure that reforms meet the unique needs of Morocco's people, she said.
The role of digital expression
Bouayach also spoke about the evolving nature of freedom of expression in the digital era. In her address, she noted the expansion of online freedoms in Morocco, especially with over 38 million internet subscriptions and millions of social media accounts.
The shift to digital platforms has allowed greater public engagement and discussion, particularly concerning human rights, she said. However, it has also raised new challenges related to regulating content without infringing on freedom of expression.
In this respect, she noted the need for a balanced approach that protects human rights in the digital space and ensures that freedom of expression does not come at the cost of other fundamental rights. Bouayach added it is important to follow international human rights frameworks, such as Articles 19 and 20 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to guide this process.
Despite the progress made, Bouayach acknowledged that Morocco still faces challenges in its human rights journey. She stated that the ultimate goal is to ensure the full realization of the constitutional guarantees of rights and freedoms and turn them into a tangible reality for all Moroccans.
The reform process, the CNDH head concluded, is not merely a political choice but an ethical duty aimed at achieving sustainable development and social cohesion.
