Ms. Pejčinović Burić, who spoke on the occasion of the working visit, on April 15 and 16 to Strasbourg, of a large Moroccan delegation led by the Secretary General of the DIDH, Morocco’s legislative progress in the fight against racial discrimination”>Abdelkarim Boujradi, also expressed: his appreciation for the role of model that Morocco can play for other countries in the region.
During this working session, held Monday in the presence of the Consul General of Morocco in Strasbourg, Omar Amghar, Mr. Boujradi, for his part, underlined “the importance of initiating positive dynamics to face common challenges within of a demanding geostrategic space in terms of human rights,” the press release continues.
The two parties also “expressed their pride in the solid strategic relationship that binds them,” specifies the same source.
Furthermore, Mr. Boujradi held a working session on Tuesday with the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Theodoros Rousopoulos.
On this occasion, Mr. Rousopoulos welcomed the depth and solidity of relations between the two parties, particularly with regard to the Kingdom’s active role in the Parliamentary Assembly, thanks to the status of “Partner for Democracy”. which he has enjoyed since 2011.
During this meeting, Mr. Boujradi, for his part, underlined that “the strength of the Council of Europe is that it adopts a true partner approach”, adds the press release.
“The two parties are on the right track to develop their cooperation and expand channels of dialogue beyond their respective borders,” welcomed the Secretary General of the DIDH.
Several other officials from Council of Europe bodies received the Moroccan delegation, notably the vice-president of the European Court of Human Rights, Judge Georges Ravarani, the director of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, Claudia Luciani , the vice-president of the Conference of International Non-Governmental Organizations, Christoph Spreng.
The Moroccan delegation was also received by the Director of Program Coordination, Claus Neukirch, the Director of the General Directorate of Democracy and Human Dignity, Jeroen Schokkenbroek, the Director of Security, Integrity and Rule of Law, Hanne Juncherk, and the Deputy Director of the Office of the Commissioner for Rights, Özgür Derman.
This important working visit to the Council of Europe was devoted to examining ways to strengthen strategic cooperation in the field of human rights in order to face shared challenges, both on the two shores of the Mediterranean, as well as in other regional areas and in the world, underlines the press release.
The delegation, led by Mr. Boujradi, was composed of the advisor to the Minister of Justice, Fatima Zahra Maelainine, the mission manager at the DIDH, Abdelouahed Elatir, and the head of the United Nations System department at the DIDH, Zineb Ouaaba.
Interview: The Role of Morocco in Advancing Human Rights in Europe
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Good day, and welcome to our special segment at Time.news. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Amina Selmani, a renowned expert in international relations and human rights. She joins us to discuss Morocco’s growing influence in the region, particularly following the recent visit of a Moroccan delegation to Strasbourg. Welcome, Dr. Selmani!
Dr. Amina Selmani: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this important topic.
Editor: On April 15 and 16, a Moroccan delegation, led by Secretary General Abdelkarim Boujradi, visited Strasbourg. We saw expressions of admiration for Morocco’s role as a model country in the region. In your view, how is Morocco positioned to serve as such a role model?
Dr. Selmani: Morocco has indeed made significant strides in various areas, particularly in human rights and democratic governance. The recognition from European leaders, as noted during this visit, underscores the importance of Morocco as a stabilizing force in an often tumultuous region. The country’s proactive stance on human rights issues—and its engagement with the Council of Europe as a “Partner for Democracy” since 2011—demonstrates its commitment to reform and cooperation.
Editor: Absolutely. Mr. Boujradi emphasized the need to initiate positive dynamics to address common challenges in human rights. What do you think these challenges are, and how can Morocco lead the way?
Dr. Selmani: The primary challenges include tackling human rights abuses, ensuring justice, and promoting civic freedoms across the Mediterranean region. With its experience and ongoing reforms, Morocco can share best practices in areas such as legal reform, advocacy for women’s rights, and refugee protection. Moreover, Morocco’s strategic partnerships with European institutions provide a platform for dialogue and shared initiatives.
Editor: The visit included a meeting with Theodoros Rousopoulos, the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. What does this relationship mean for both Morocco and Europe?
Dr. Selmani: This relationship is crucial as it enhances Morocco’s standing in European political dialogues. It opens avenues for collaboration on policy-making, particularly concerning migration and security, as well as upholding human rights. For Europe, partnering with Morocco helps mitigate challenges like immigration and terrorism, further reinforcing stability in the region.
Editor: You mentioned Morocco’s involvement in human rights reforms. How sustainable do you find these efforts given the varying political climates in the region?
Dr. Selmani: While the political landscape can be unpredictable, Morocco has shown resilience and adaptability. The monarchy’s commitment to reforms, backed by the support of civil society, lays a foundation for durable change. However, continuous engagement from international partners, including the EU, is essential to maintain momentum and ensure that these reforms are not rolled back.
Editor: Really insightful points, Dr. Selmani. As we wrap up, how do you see the future of Morocco’s role in human rights in the context of European-Maghreb relations?
Dr. Selmani: If Morocco continues on its current trajectory of reform and engagement, I foresee a strengthening of ties between the Maghreb and Europe. This partnership can serve as a model for other countries in the region, demonstrating that economic and political stability are achievable through mutual respect and cooperation in human rights. It’s about building bridges rather than walls.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Selmani, for your valuable insights today. It’s clear that Morocco has a pivotal role to play in shaping a positive future for human rights in the region. We look forward to following the developments in this ongoing narrative.
Dr. Selmani: Thank you for having me! I’m glad to share this important conversation.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay connected with Time.news for more updates on these pressing global issues.