In its 2023 annual report, Morocco’s National Human Rights Council (CNDH), led by President Amina Bouayach, called for legal reforms to address pressing human rights concerns amid a rise in citizen complaints in 2023.
The Council submitted proposals to amend the Family Code, emphasizing the need to protect women, girls, and children. Bouayach specifically urged for the criminalization of marital rape and the abolition of child marriage.
The report revealed a significant increase in complaints received by the CNDH in 2023, exceeding 3,000. These complaints covered various issues, including environmental degradation due to water scarcity, violence against women, and limitations on the freedom of association faced by NGOs.
The Council also criticized the justice system’s continued use of the death penalty, despite its non-application in two decades. Bouayach argued for abolishment, citing international trends and the importance of upholding the right to life. Additionally, the CNDH investigated cases of torture and ill-treatment in detention facilities.
In prisons, Bouyach said that the Council received three complaints in 2023 alleging torture. The council followed up on these complaints, and investigations are ongoing by the Public Prosecution. The official also clarified the difference between torture and ill-treatment and noted that 149 complaints of ill-treatment were received in 2023, but most did not constitute torture.
She said that some complaints stemmed from disagreements and tension between detainees, with interventions by prison administration to restore order being perceived by detainees as degrading treatment.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.