Ms. Bouayach Emphasizes the Importance of Achieving Objective 8 of the Global Compact for Migration
The National Human Rights Council (CNDH), in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Morocco, organized, on December 11, 2024, a workshop themed “Preventing Disappearances in the Context of Migration, Protecting Family Rights, and Ensuring Humane Border Management.”
In her opening statement, Ms. Amina Bouayach, CNDH Chairperson, stressed the importance of protecting migrants' rights, regardless of their legal status, as a fundamental human right. She highlighted that since 2014, over 69,000 people have gone missing during migration journeys, including 15,833 in Africa alone. These tragedies, she noted, call for urgent action and enhanced institutional cooperation to implement Objective 8 of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration (GCM).
CNDH’s Chairperson welcomed three key dynamics in the field of migration:
1- Institutional efforts made by certain African countries, including Morocco for preventing disappearances, since its standardized framework for migrant guidance and care, developed by the Ministry of Interior, contributes to humanizing border management.
2- Critical role of international organizations such as IOM and UNHCR in documentation and capacity-building.
3- Engagement of civil society actors, healthcare professionals, and field workers who provide support to affected families.
Regarding the CNDH’s efforts in this context, Ms. Bouayach stated that the institution, in partnership with the IOM, aims to promote collective reflection on the recommendations issued in 2023 within the Rabat Process framework. She emphasized that this dialogue platform between countries of origin, transit, and destination serves as a valuable forum for developing best practices, implementing practical measures to prevent disappearances, upholding the dignity of deceased persons, and providing concrete solutions to families.
In her remarks, Ms. Laura Palatini, Head of IOM Mission in Morocco, noted that Morocco as a leader in implementing the GCM, have been committed to saving lives and coordinating efforts to prevent migrant disappearances. Ms. Palatini also highlighted Morocco's innovative initiative, "Humane Border Management," which integrates the protection of human rights at borders.
As International Migrants Day (December 18) approaches, Ms. Palatini noted that every migrant carries the potential for change and can contribute to development. She also stressed that beyond numbers and statistics, each life is invaluable, underscoring the necessity of taking all measures to ensure its protection.
The workshop, which brought together representatives from relevant ministries, international organizations, and civil society, served as a platform to exchange best practices for addressing disappearances and fostering a participatory approach.
Discussions emphasized the role of civil society in enhancing measures and mechanisms for identifying deceased individuals, highlighting the legal frameworks related to protection measures. Participants also shared their experiences and best practices related to prevent disappearances.
Read more
