Rabat – Morocco’s National Human Rights Council (CNDH) is organizing an international debate titled “Human Rights Universality: Realized Effectiveness or an Incomplete Path?” at the National Library in Rabat. The two-day event, held on December 7 and 8, aims to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and foster a global dialogue on the universality of human rights.
The event opened today with the reading of a message from King Mohammed VI by CNDH President Amina Bouayach. In the message, the King emphasized Morocco’s commitment to enhancing human rights.
He underlined efforts in consolidating the rule of law,strengthening institutions, and aligning with principles of justice, equality, solidarity, and harmony rooted in Islamic faith.
President of Morocco’s National Human Rights Council (CNDH) Amina Bouayach reading king Mohammed’s message at the event
“Our commitment to human rights has become a defining element of public policy and a basic determinant of the strategic decisions we make,” the monarch said.
Speaking to Morocco World News, Bouayach highlighted the significance of the gathering and the king’s message.
“His Majesty’s message serves as not only a conceptual framework but also a guide for thoughtful consideration and, significantly, a blueprint for the future,” said the CNDH chief, adding that the monarch’s message underlined the prevalence of repeated “violations, crimes, displacement, wars, and various forms of attacks.”
Attendees at the event, including Morocco’s Minister of Justice Abdellatif Hayar and the Minister of Solidarity, Social integration, and Family Aawatif Hayar
The forum served as a platform for more than 40 distinguished figures, including authors, philosophers, historians, journalists, artists, and intellectuals from around the world.
Read also: King Mohammed VI Stresses Morocco’s Commitment to Enhancing Human Rights
Participants engaged in discussions covering six key themes, including the evolving contexts of human rights universality, Africa’s position in the international human rights system, and Morocco’s engagement in the same system.
President Bouayach emphasized the need to draw upon the experiences of countries in the Global South, considering them as virtuous practices capable of generating innovative solutions for contemporary challenges.
Panelists at the event
Discussing the aims of the debate, Bouayach said that the event will delve into these pressing questions and visions throughout the next two days.
She outlined the post-event plan, including the creation of a document encapsulating the essence of discussions. This document will undergo further discussions with entities such as the United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union, reflecting an iterative process originating from Morocco.
The ongoing debate also explored common challenges related to climate change, sustainable development, and digital technology, and promoted a human rights culture as a lever for enhancing human rights universality.
Attendees at the event
In addition, the role of art and imagination in the service of a universal human vision is a significant aspect of the discussions.
In addition to the debate, CNDH, in collaboration with the Bank of Morocco and La Poste Group, will host an event to mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The ceremony will include the presentation of a commemorative coin and postage stamp issued in celebration of the anniversary, in partnership with the United Nations Information Center.
