In a notable move, Morocco is set to vote in favor of the 10th United Nations resolution on the moratorium on the death penalty, signaling a significant policy shift. Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi announced the momentous policy shift during a parliamentary session today, confirming Morocco’s intention to support the resolution at this month’s upcoming UN General Assembly.
This marks a departure from Morocco’s earlier position of abstaining from votes on the nine preceding resolutions. Ouahbi described the decision as a testament to Morocco’s commitment to safeguarding the right to life. He cited Article 20 of the Moroccan Constitution, which declares: “The right to life is the first right of every human being. The law protects this right.”
Addressing questions from both opposition and majority groups, the minister characterized the move as a historic step that aligns with Morocco’s evolving stance on human rights. By backing the resolution, he argued, Morocco aims to balance its role as a progressive nation in human justice while respecting its cultural specificities and societal discourse.
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The North African kingdom has upheld a de facto moratorium on executions since 1993, reinforcing its dedication to the principle of life protection. Ouahbi suggested that supporting the UN resolution further solidifies this approach and demonstrates Morocco’s alignment with universal human rights values.
As Morocco prepares for this pivotal vote, Ouahbi’s parliamentary speech sought to underscores the country’s efforts to champion humane justice on the international stage, marking a new chapter in its journey toward rights-based governance.
While unprecedented, Morocco’s upcoming vote in favor of the UN resolution is the culmination of a gradual shift in attitude and policy regarding capital punishment.
Last October, Morocco’s National Human Rights Council (CNDH) called on the Moroccan government to align its position and regulations on the death penalty with international human rights standards.
In particular, the CNDH urged Moroccan lawmakers to ratify the OP2 Protocol in line with Article 20 of Morocco’s 2011 Moroccan Constitution.
MWN with MAP.
