Towards Institutionalizing the Principle of Participation
On June 13 and 14, the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) hosts a national consultation with children at its headquarters in Rabat, Morocco. This event concludes a year-long process that began in February 2023 and included twelve regional consultations across the Kingdom, engaging hundreds of children from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
This initiative, beginning on Friday, June 13 at 4:00 p.m., is part of a CNDH-led initiative with the support of UNICEF Morocco, that aims to strengthen the institutionalization of children’s participation, ensuring that they are involved not only in matters that concern their rights but also in broader issues affecting their communities and their lives. This approach reflects the recognition of participation as a fundamental principle of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Morocco is a signatory.
“Engaging children and institutionalizing their participation is neither a luxury nor a courtesy,” emphasized CNDH Chairperson Ms. Amina Bouayach. “It is a fundamental right and a cornerstone for building fair, inclusive, and responsive public policies that listen to and address children’s needs and best interests… shaping Morocco’s women and men of tomorrow, and the future of the nation.”
The national consultation, led by the children, will focus on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the work of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, and the parallel reports submitted to it. The consultation will also include the election of child representatives who will present a parallel report to the UN Committee in September.
The consultation will be inaugurated by the children alongside Ms. Amina Bouayach, CNDH Chairperson, Ms. Naima Ben Yahya, Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family, and the UNICEF representative in Morocco. It will culminate in the launch of a Children’s Call, expressing their vision and priority rights. During the event, a partnership agreement will be signed between the CNDH and UNICEF. The program also features an interactive drawing workshop on the digital space and safe internet use for children.
Listening. Action. Participation.
National Human Rights Council
35 Years
Rights. Freedoms. Effectiveness.
