The National Human Rights Council (CNDH) is following with deep concern the collapse of a residential building in Fez on the morning of Thursday, May 21, which, according to a preliminary toll, resulted in the deaths of nine people and left several others injured and transferred to hospitals for treatment.
A team from the Council's Regional Human Rights Commission in the Fez-Meknes region has been assigned to monitor the incident closely, assess its impact, and conduct field inquiries.
While extending its heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wishing a speedy recovery to all those injured in this tragedy, the CNDH reiterated the concerns expressed in its statement issued on December 11, 2025, following another tragic collapse involving two residential buildings in the Al Massira neighborhood of the Bensouda district in Fez.
In light of this latest tragedy, the CNDH renewed several of its key conclusions and recommendations, notably:
* Warning that the recurring collapse of residential buildings is a direct violation of the right to adequate housing as defined by international standards, and calling for a comprehensive national strategy based on prevention, regular and strict inspections, and the development of monitoring and forecasting mechanisms;
* Stressing the need for residents to comply with construction standards and regulations, while ensuring transparency and oversight by the relevant authorities in order to prevent disasters that may endanger lives;
* Calling for stronger institutional coordination between the relevant government sectors, territorial authorities, and elected councils within a collective commitment that places the right to adequate housing and the safety of citizens at the center of public policies and programs;
* Emphasizing the strict enforcement of urban planning laws and construction regulations, particularly regarding mandatory building permits, rigorous technical oversight, and the quality of architectural and engineering design;
* Urging the establishment of a permanent joint rapid-response mechanism to intervene when cracks, structural defects, or construction flaws are detected, allowing preventive action before accidents occur, in order to protect lives and ensure urban safety.
The CNDH also called for the opening of a judicial investigation into this tragic incident, with the publication of its findings and the determination of responsibilities, in line with the principle of accountability.
The Council further renewed its call on all relevant stakeholders to adopt a sustainable public policy for rehousing families living in buildings at risk of collapse. Such a policy, it stressed, should provide adequate and integrated housing alternatives based on dignity, fairness, and territorial equity, rather than relying solely on temporary or emergency solutions.
The CNDH also commended the presence of public authorities and their direct supervision of rescue and emergency operations. The Regional Commission observed the efforts deployed by civil protection services, local authorities, national security forces, and auxiliary forces, as well as the contribution of local volunteers from the community.
The Council likewise praised the precautionary measures taken regarding neighboring buildings to protect lives, including immediate evacuations and the reinforcement of other structures as part of a preventive approach.
