Rabat – Morocco has emerged as a key partner for the Council of Europe (CoE) in advancing human rights, according to a joint statement released by the Moroccan Interministerial Delegation for Human Rights (DIDH) and the CoE.
This collaboration was solidified during a recent working visit by a high-level Moroccan delegation led by DIDH Secretary-General Abdelkarim Boujradi.
“Morocco is a key partner of the Council of Europe,” declared CoE Secretary-General Marija Pejčinović Burić, highlighting the potential for the North African nation to serve as a “model for other countries in the region.”
The visit, which took place on April 15th and 16th in Strasbourg, France, focused on strengthening strategic cooperation in the human rights domain.
Discussions between Boujradi and CoE officials centered on addressing shared challenges “within a geostrategic space demanding in terms of human rights,” the statement noted.
Both sides expressed satisfaction with the “strong strategic relationship” that binds them. Boujradi emphasized the value of the CoE’s “true partner” approach, while CoE Parliamentary Assembly President Theodoros Rousopoulos commended the “active role” played by Morocco, particularly since acquiring “Partner for Democracy” status in 2011.
The Moroccan delegation’s itinerary included meetings with numerous CoE officials, highlighting the breadth and depth of the engagement.
These included the Vice-President of the European Court of Human Rights, the Director of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, and representatives from the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights.
Morocco’s active participation in CoE initiatives, including its observer status with various bodies such as the European Advisory Council of Prosecutors and its ratification of several Council of Europe Conventions, highlights its dedication to fostering a common legal framework across the European continent and the southern Mediterranean.
The documents for cooperation priorities between Morocco and the CoE, spanning from 2012 to 2021, have laid the groundwork for continued political dialogue and technical cooperation.
The ongoing Neighborhood Partnership with Morocco aims to consolidate efforts in combating discrimination, judicial reform, and human rights education, building upon previous achievements.
In addition to bilateral cooperation, Morocco’s involvement in regional programs organized by the CoE, such as the South Programme and CyberSouth, highlights its commitment to broader regional cooperation in upholding human rights and the rule of law.
