The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) President, Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro, has commended Morocco’s role in shaping the Universal Periodic Review, describing the Kingdom as a “key player and a central actor” within the Council.
In an interview with MAP on the sidelines of his participation in the international retreat titled “Beyond the 4th Cycle: UPR 5”, Suryodipuro emphasized that Morocco possesses a “repository of knowledge” that makes it a contributor to the global advancement of human rights, while providing a platform for countries to exchange experiences and best practices.
Highlighting UPR as a vital avenue for mutual learning among Member States, Suryodipuro underscored Morocco’s contribution to the promotion of international cooperation as a “credible actor” on the international stage.
In this regard, the UNHRC Head warmly welcomed Morocco’s hosting of this high-level retreat, held in Rabat on June 5-6, and which coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council and the conclusion of the UPR’s 4th cycle.
By hosting this event, which serves as a platform for evaluation, strategic and constructive reflection, and exchanges, “Morocco provides a timely and open forum for frank brainstorming” as the international community prepares for the transition from the fourth to the fifth UPR cycle, he noted.
The UNHRC President recalled Morocco’s presidency of the Council in 2024, which reflects the Kingdom’s international standing and its proven ability to bridge regional and civilizational perspectives, as the Council’s presidency rotates annually among regional groups.
Looking forward to the Kingdom’s hosting of the 2027 meeting of the International Network of Implementation, Reporting, and Follow-up Mechanisms (NMIRFs), Suryodipuro pointed out that the upcoming coordination meetings are shifting the focus back toward tangible, measurable impact on the ground.
In this respect, he explained that the entire process must center on the person on the ground, ensuring it actively strengthens individual human rights, human dignity, and the ability of citizens to contribute meaningfully to their societies.
The retreat is organized by the Interministerial Delegation for Human Rights, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and UPR Info, the international non-governmental organization specializing in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).
Alongside the UN Human Rights top official, the Head of the Universal Periodic Review Branch of the Human Rights Council, Juliette de Rivero as well as other representatives and experts from 28 countries are taking part in the event.
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