5th CNDH Agora Focus on Human Rights Principles & Challenges in Protecting Cultural Expressions

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Published on 27 February 2025

On February 26, the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) of Morocco hosted the fifth session of the Human Rights Agora, focusing on the challenges of protecting cultural expressions from a human rights perspective. This significant event underscored the importance of cultural heritage in shaping national identity and preserving historical memory.

Held at the CNDH headquarters, the event brought together leading experts, professionals, artists, theater practitioners, academics, and researchers. Representatives from various sectors and administrations, including security forces, the Royal Gendarmerie and customs, participated in discussions alongside human rights advocates. Participants emphasized the significance of cultural expressions as a shared heritage and a fundamental pillar in shaping Morocco's national identity and historical memory. A key focus of the discussions was the protection of Morocco’s rich cultural expressions, particularly its rock heritage, which serves as a testament to the country’s deep-rooted identity and memory.

Mrs. Amina Bouayach, CNDH Chairperson, inaugurated the session by emphasizing the need to integrate cultural expressions within national public policies. The Agora was an opportunity to explore the role of national policies in supporting cultural and creative industries and ensuring equitable access to cultural resources.

Through this dialogue, as outlined in the event's concept note, the CNDH aims to continue enriching the discussion on cultural rights in Morocco and strengthening the role of cultural heritage as a strategic pillar of sustainable development. This human rights-oriented approach aligns with various recommendations from international human rights and cultural diversity bodies, as well as the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity and UNESCO’s Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

As highlighted in the event’s concept note, CNDH remains committed to enriching the national dialogue on cultural rights and recognizing cultural heritage as a strategic pillar of sustainable development. This approach aligns with key recommendations from international human rights organizations and cultural diversity bodies, as well as the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity and UNESCO’s Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.