For the first time in history, Morocco was elected, on Wednesday 10 January 2024 in Geneva, to chair the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for the year 2024. With 30 votes from the 47 HRC members, Morocco surpassed South Africa, which received only 17 votes.

Ms. Amina Bouayach, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), underscored the historic significance of Morocco’s election as the culmination of a 20-years journey dedicated to realizing rights at the national level. Morocco has adopted an inclusive participatory approach in addressing structural human rights issues, including the review of the Constitution in 2011 and ongoing revisions to the Family Code. The country has actively engaged with the international human rights system by signing and ratifying several conventions and protocols, submitting reports, and addressing global issues.

Ms. Bouayach noted that Morocco has acquired the skill of maintaining balance between human rights principles and values, requiring support, and political matters over past two decades. Morocco has consistently refrained from tying human rights concerns to its political interests, earning the trust of several countries worldwide and leading to its current role as chair of the HRC.

In this context, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccans Expatriates highlighted, in its statement, that Morocco has made an irreversible choice to uphold the rule of law and respect for human rights. This commitment, outlined in the 2011 Constitution, has instigated an ongoing momentum of reforms dedicated to strengthening democracy, promoting equality between women and men, achieving social and territorial justice, ensuring the comprehensive effectiveness of human rights, fostering inclusive participation, and empowering the youth.

The statement affirmed that, throughout its presidency, Morocco will remain true to the approach it has consistently pursued during its three terms within the HRC. Prioritiszing dialogue, synergy and consensus, Morocco is committed to actively collaborating with Council members and regional groups to strengthen and promote this vital body in the United Nations human rights system.