Morocco champions human rights approach for women's equality

Morocco's commitment to women's rights took center stage at a recent conference in Panama, marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. The event, organized by the Women Journalists Foundation in collaboration with Panama’s Foreign Ministry, showcased the North African nation's strides in promoting women's economic and social empowerment.

Moroccan Ambassador to Panama, Bouchra Boudchiche, highlighted her country's dedication to international frameworks aimed at advancing women's rights. She specifically referenced Morocco's alignment with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

In a statement from the Moroccan embassy in Panama, Boudchiche elaborated on the various initiatives undertaken under the leadership of King Mohammed VI to bolster women's economic, social, and political empowerment. She emphasized that development policies must adopt a human rights perspective, ensuring women enjoy the same universal rights as men.

Boudchiche commended Panama’s efforts in promoting women's empowerment, particularly in rural areas, underscoring the vital role women play in sustaining food and agricultural systems, thereby contributing to more equitable societies.

Morocco has embarked on a transformative journey to enhance the status of women. Recently, the government initiated a revision of the Moroccan family code, known as the Moudawana, to address persistent gender disparities. Notably, one of the revisions allows parents to transfer ownership of property to their daughters before their passing, safeguarding their inheritance rights.

The conference also served as a platform to honor several distinguished women excelling in diverse fields. Among the attendees were Panamanian Culture Minister María Eugenia Herrera, Foreign Ministry Secretary General Veruschka Ramos, and the Organization of American States Representative to Panama, Ruben Farje, alongside diplomats, civil society representatives, and media personnel.