Moroccan human rights association satisfied over decision to grant public utility status to human rights associations
Morocco, Culture, 1/20/2000

The Moroccan human rights association (AMDH) welcomed in its annual report on human rights situation in Morocco the decision of Moroccan authorities to grant human rights bodies the public utility status and called for a rapid enforcement of the measure.

The AMDH also voiced appreciation over the government promise to work to harmonize national legislation with the international human rights conventions.

Reacting to the prime minister's presentation before the two houses of the parliament to defend action by his government since it took power 18 months ago, the association deplored the cabinet's delays in implementing the national plan for the integration of women in the development plan, which is considered as a minimum and a first step to respecting women's rights as they are stipulated in the UN germane convention.

It also said the prime minister's presentation has not honored the government's commitment to adopt major human rights reforms, mainly adapting the constitution to human rights principles.

The association noted some improvements in the human rights situation in Morocco in 1999, like the return of opponent Abraham Serfaty and the family of another Moroccan opponent, Mehdi Benbarka. The association also cited as positive developments the enactment of a new law on prisons and the project of a national education charter that includes the teaching of berber in schools.

A call was issued to definitely and urgently end cases of deaths in police custody and enable citizens enjoy their full rights, such as the right to have a passport and the right to leave the national territory, lifting thus all forms of harassment at borders and airports.

The association also criticized the prime minister's presentation for limiting the issue of forced disappearance and arbitrary detention to compensations while the problem requires, it argued, a fair, comprehensive and final settlement in conformity with basic human rights principles.

Moroccan authorities should ratify all human rights conventions, including those of the International Labor Organization, and use the public media at the service of human rights while respecting the right to difference.

The association also wishes that the human rights information and training center to be set up in Morocco with the assistance of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights be at the service of human rights.

Previous Stories:
  Children, women in adverse situation network activated   (1/3/2000)
  Moroccan writer among goodwill ambassadors against racism   (12/11/1999)
  Rights protection center project presented to Youssoufi   (11/13/1999)

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