King Mohammed VI has appointed Mohamed Habib Belkouch as the new Ministerial Delegate for Human Rights, following the death of his predecessor, Ahmed Chaouki Benyoub in September 2023.
Belkouch’s appointment brings high expectations for Morocco’s human rights agenda, given his extensive experience across political, organizational, and cultural spheres, along with his longstanding commitment to reform and justice.
Previously a member of the National Council for Human Rights, Belkouch currently leads the Center for Human Rights and Democracy Studies. He also serves as an advisor on human rights to various national and international organizations, both governmental and non-governmental.
Belkouch has held several key roles throughout his career, including expert advisor to the Minister of Human Rights from 1998 to 2000 and director of the Documentation, Information, and Training Center for Human Rights in collaboration with the United Nations from 2000 to 2005.
He also managed the Migration Program at the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Network between 2005 and 2006 and coordinated numerous international human rights cooperation projects.
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In his new position, Belkouch will oversee various national and international human rights reports. He has previously coordinated training programs on human rights and transitional justice and contributed to the Arab Network for UNESCO, focusing on economic, social, and cultural rights. He has also published works on human rights.
Belkouch has been a significant figure in shaping policy discussions, advocating for social justice, equity, and the rule of law throughout his career. His work has often focused on integrating human rights into the everyday lives of Moroccans.
As a former leader of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), he has worked to bridge the gap between Morocco’s rich heritage and its aspirations for a democratic, human rights-centered future.
This role has positioned him at the center of the country’s most pivotal political debates, providing him with a unique perspective on Morocco’s evolving relationship with human rights.
As Ministerial Delegate for Human Rights, many Moroccans are hopeful that Belkouch, known for his reformist reputation, will take on the difficult conversations necessary for progress.
While Morocco has made considerable progress in human rights over the years, Belkoush’s mission, however, does not come without challenges as freedom of speech, the rights of marginalized groups, and press freedom continue to be areas of concern.
