Chairing an expert seminar on economic, social and cultural rights and the fight against corruption in the context of post-pandemic recovery, Mr. Zniber stressed that this global health crisis has highlighted the vulnerabilities of our societies, particularly in the most marginalized communities, where corruption exacerbates poverty, inequality and the denial of basic services.
“Corruption is, without a doubt, one of the most important challenges that continues to drag our societies down,” he said, adding that in addition to its even more disastrous impact on women, young people and all vulnerable people, this scourge worsens inequalities and reduces private investment, undermining markets, employment opportunities and economies.
For the president of the CDH, this seminar “reminds us that the impact of corruption is not only a question of politics or economic management, but that it is indeed, fundamentally, a question of human rights”.
In light of these realities, the HRC continues to actively engage in advancing the understanding of the links between corruption and human rights, he recalled, noting that the protection of civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights, requires States to engage in the prevention of corruption and the adoption of effective anti-corruption frameworks.
Fighting corruption requires more than legal frameworks; it requires political will and, above all, the commitment of all segments of society, he insisted, adding that the protection of the rights of civil society, whistleblowers, anti-corruption activists, journalists and legal professionals is equally crucial in providing them with a safe and conducive environment for their work.
Furthermore, Mr. Zniber, also Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Nations Office in Geneva, reaffirmed that “the equal promotion of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural has been one of his main priorities throughout the Moroccan presidency of the HRC.
He recalled having repeatedly stressed the importance of addressing the interconnection of climate change, food security, health and human rights, as well as the implications of new technologies and the digital divide on the enjoyment of fundamental human rights.
These issues are closely linked to today’s theme, corruption, which highlights the cross-cutting nature of these challenges, he concluded, calling for collaboration with international financial institutions to combat it.
This seminar, at which Morocco was represented by Mr. Rachid Medouar, vice-president of the National Authority for Integrity, Prevention and Fight against Corruption (INPPLC), aims to deepen the understanding of the link between corruption and realization of economic, social and cultural rights.
Held in accordance with HRC Resolution 53/17, it provides an opportunity to share best practices, review past achievements and challenges, and explore innovative solutions to ensure that anti-corruption efforts are more effective. effectively linked to the protection of human rights, particularly in the context of post-pandemic recovery.
What are the most effective strategies for promoting economic and social rights in a post-pandemic world?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Mr. Zniber, Expert on Economic and Social Rights
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Zniber. You recently chaired a seminar focused on economic, social, and cultural rights in the context of post-pandemic recovery. What were some of the key takeaways from that seminar regarding the interplay between corruption and human rights?
Mr. Zniber: Thank you for having me. One of the most significant takeaways was the stark revelation that the pandemic has magnified the vulnerabilities already existing within our societies, particularly among marginalized communities. We discussed how corruption not only devastates economies but also exacerbates poverty and inequality, denying essential services to those who need them most.
Time.news Editor: That’s a powerful point. You mentioned in your remarks that corruption has a particularly disastrous impact on women, young people, and vulnerable groups. Can you elaborate on that?
Mr. Zniber: Absolutely. Corruption tends to reinforce existing inequalities. For instance, women often face systemic barriers that limit their access to resources and opportunities. During the pandemic, corruption in the distribution of aid and resources disproportionately affected them, leading to increased economic insecurity. Young people, too, are often left behind, particularly in regions where corruption stunts educational and employment opportunities. This ultimately hinders their potential and perpetuates cycles of poverty.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like the implications of corruption stretch far beyond just politics and economics; they’re deeply rooted in human rights. How can societies move toward more effective anti-corruption measures?
Mr. Zniber: Indeed, corruption is fundamentally a human rights issue. To combat it, we need more than just legal frameworks; we require robust political will and commitment from all segments of society. It’s essential to foster a culture of integrity and transparency. Crucially, we must protect the rights of civil society, including whistleblowers, journalists, and activists, who play a pivotal role in holding power accountable.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of accountability, how do you see the role of international bodies in addressing corruption while promoting human rights?
Mr. Zniber: International bodies have a crucial role to play in fostering dialogue and collaboration between nations. By sharing best practices and supporting the establishment of effective anti-corruption frameworks, they can help build capacity at the national level. Moreover, these bodies must hold states accountable for their commitments to uphold human rights, particularly in their anti-corruption efforts.
Time.news Editor: You highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach to tackle corruption. In your view, what are some concrete steps that governments can take right now to start making a difference?
Mr. Zniber: Governments can start by implementing transparent procurement processes and ensuring that public funds are managed with utmost accountability. They should also actively engage with civil society to gain insights and feedback on their initiatives. Creating safe channels for reporting corruption and protecting the rights of whistleblowers is also essential. Only through collaboration and commitment can we create an environment where corruption is actively opposed.
Time.news Editor: It’s clear that combating corruption is a multi-layered challenge that intersects with various aspects of society. As we look to the future, what message would you like to leave our readers regarding the importance of this fight?
Mr. Zniber: I would emphasize that fighting corruption is not just a governmental responsibility; it’s a collective endeavor that requires engagement from every facet of society. When we stand against corruption, we are not only defending economic and political rights but also advocating for the very essence of human dignity and equity. Let’s work together to create a just society where everyone can thrive.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Zniber, for sharing your insights with us today. Your thoughts on the vital connection between corruption and human rights are certainly relevant as we navigate the complexities of post-pandemic recovery.
Mr. Zniber: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue this conversation and take action.