Date: January 10, 2024
In a historic achievement, the Kingdom of Morocco has been brilliantly elected to the Presidency of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the year 2024. The vote, held on Wednesday in Geneva, saw overwhelming support for Morocco with 30 out of 47 members of the UN Human Rights Council endorsing its candidacy. In contrast, South Africa only secured 17 votes, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad in a statement.
This marks the first time in Morocco’s history that it has assumed the presidency of this prestigious UN body. The election reflects international recognition of the visionary approach of His Majesty King Mohammed VI in safeguarding and promoting human rights.
Under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has made an irrevocable choice to uphold the rule of law and respect for human rights. This commitment, enshrined in the 2011 Constitution, is manifested through a continuous momentum of reforms aimed at consolidating democracy, promoting gender equality, ensuring social and territorial justice, and guaranteeing the full effectiveness of human rights. The reforms also focus on inclusive participation and empowerment of youth, as emphasized in the statement.
Morocco’s election, despite the opposition from Algeria and South Africa, demonstrates the trust and credibility inspired by Morocco’s foreign policy under Royal guidance in Africa, on the international stage, and within the multilateral system.
The Kingdom of Morocco, known for its significant contributions to the Human Rights Council, especially in the foundational processes of this body’s development, appreciates the trust placed in it. This election is considered a strong signal from the international community in favor of Morocco’s constructive approach and its unifying leadership on key issues such as interreligious dialogue, tolerance, combating racial hatred, the right to a healthy and sustainable environment, migrants’ rights, and the impact of new technologies.
Throughout its presidency, Morocco pledges to adhere to the principles it has consistently followed during its three mandates within the Human Rights Council – prioritizing dialogue, unity, and consensus. The Kingdom aims to actively work with council members and all regional groups to strengthen and enhance the influence of this crucial organ within the UN human rights system, concludes the statement.
