36/6 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Morocco
Document Type: Final Report
Date: 2017 Jul
Session: 36th Regular Session (2017 Sep)
Agenda Item: Item6: Universal Periodic Review
GE.17-11780(E)
Human Rights Council Thirty-sixth session
11-29 September 2017
Agenda item 6
Universal periodic review
Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*
Morocco
* The annex is being circulated without formal editing, in the languages of submission only.
United Nations A/HRC/36/6
Introduction
1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance
with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-seventh session from 1 to 12
May 2017. The review of Morocco was held at the 4th meeting, on 2 May 2017. The
delegation of Morocco was headed by the Minister for Human Rights, Mostafa Ramid. At
its 10th meeting, held on 5 May 2017, the Working Group adopted the report on Morocco.
2. On 13 February 2017, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of
rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Morocco: Congo, Panama and United Arab
Emirates.
3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution
5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents
were issued for the review of Morocco:
(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with
paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/27/MAR/1);
(b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High
Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b)
(A/HRC/WG.6/27/MAR/2);
(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)
(A/HRC/WG.6/27/MAR/3).
4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, Germany, Liechtenstein,
Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Morocco through the
troika. These questions are available on the extranet of the universal periodic review.
I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process
A. Presentation by the State under review
5. The delegation of Morocco, headed by the Minister for Human Rights, emphasized
the importance that Morocco had paid to following up on the recommendations received
during the second cycle of the universal periodic review and emphasized the action plan
adopted to implement the recommendations received by Morocco from the various
international human rights mechanisms.
6. The delegation highlighted that several special procedure mandate holders had
visited Morocco during the period covered by the national report. In addition, Morocco had
invited a number of other relevant mandate holders to come to its territory.
7. The First Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of
Discrimination against Women had been approved by the parliament and the relevant
documents of ratification had been deposited with the Secretary-General.
8. The delegation stated that, following a national dialogue on a comprehensive reform
of the judicial system conducted with the participation of all stakeholders, a charter on
justice reform had been adopted. It included several strategic objectives aimed, in
particular, at consolidating the efficiency and the independence of the judiciary.
9. The justice reform process had culminated in the appointment of the members of the
Supreme Council of the Judiciary, an independent entity. Concomitantly, the Constitutional
Council had been elevated to the rank of Constitutional Court and procedures for access to
constitutional justice had been reviewed by simplifying referral procedures and through the
exception of unconstitutionality of laws procedures. Morocco had prioritized the
preparation and adoption of organic laws and other pieces of legislation establishing
constitutional bodies to protect and strengthen human rights, as well as to promote good
governance and participatory democracy.
10. The legislative and institutional reforms in the area of civil and political rights had
led to the adoption of the code on the press and publishing, the framework law on persons
with disabilities, the law against trafficking in human beings and the law establishing the
Advisory Council on Family and Childhood. Furthermore, draft laws on combating
violence against women, the Criminal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Code
of Civil Procedure had also been drafted.
11. On the basis of the conclusions of the national dialogue launched by the Government
under the theme “civil society and its new constitutional roles”, a web portal had been
created to consolidate good governance and transparency and to strengthen equal access by
civil society organizations to information on the possibilities of public funding.
12. The number of declared associations had reached 130,000 in 2015, covering social
categories of persons from different regions of the country, and around 4,000 activities
were organized by associations each day.
13. In the area of migrants’ rights, Morocco had adopted a new policy on immigration
and asylum that focused in particular on regularizing the situation of migrants in an
irregular situation and asylum seekers. The policy had resulted in a readjustment of the
legal framework relating to immigration and asylum, as well as the elaboration and
implementation of strategies for the integration of migrants and refugees.
14. The first phase of efforts to regularize the situation of migrants had been launched in
2014 as an innovative initiative in the southern Mediterranean and had resulted in the
regularization of the situation of 23,097 migrants.
15. The second phase of the exceptional regularization process had been launched in
December 2016. The Moroccan authorities had thus been able to grant refugee status to 734
asylum seekers of different nationalities. In addition, 25 associations of migrants had been
recognized, which had facilitated their access to financial support for the promotion and
protection of their rights.
16. Morocco had developed public policies relating to the rights of special categories of
the population. Particular attention had been paid to strengthening women’s rights and
equality through the adoption of the law establishing the Authority for Gender Equality and
Action against All Forms of Discrimination. The reforms had contributed to improving
women’s political participation and to strengthening women’s representation in communal,
regional and legislative elections. The representation of women in the House of
Representatives had grown from 67 in 2011 to 81 in 2016.
17. Morocco had extended the scope of its National Initiative for Human Development
by implementing five programmes aimed at combating poverty, vulnerability and social
exclusion. Since the National Initiative had been launched, 44,000 projects had been carried
out, benefiting 10 million persons. Efforts had been reinforced by a new initiative for the
development of the southern provinces, with a budget of DH 77 billion.
18. As part of its legislative and institutional reforms, the Government of Morocco had
promoted the Interministerial Delegation on Human Rights to the rank of Ministry of State.
The purpose of that decision was to strengthen coordination at the ministerial level and give
particular attention and priority to human rights. Morocco had also adopted an integrated
human rights policy promoting a participatory strategic vision and a national action plan on
democracy and human rights.
19. Collaboration had been strengthened with the National Human Rights Council and
its regional commissions, particularly with regard to the receipt of complaints and
grievances. A bill had been drafted to confer to the National Council the prerogatives of the
national mechanism for the prevention of torture, the national mechanism on reparations for
children who have been victims of violations and the national mechanisms charged with
following up on the implementation of conventions to which Morocco was a party.
20. According to the delegation, freedom of association was a fundamental freedom,
guaranteed by the Constitution of 2011. The law governing freedom of association,
however, contained provisions limiting the exercise of that right, although restrictions in
terms of yearly financial support could only be decided through the justice system, and
appeals before the judiciary were possible. The emergence of a network of associations had
been facilitated and a significant increase in the number of associations and in their
diversity, as well as an increase in community action at the national level, had been noted.
21. More than 130,000 associations operated in Morocco, in the different areas of public
life (economic, social and cultural). Over 4,500 associations worked on human rights.
22. Peaceful gatherings and demonstrations were guaranteed by the Constitution and the
law. The exercise of freedom of assembly and association was regulated by the law
governing public gatherings.
23. Freedom of assembly and association could be restricted only in case of non-
compliance with the relevant legal provisions or of breaches of public order. The relevant
decisions of the administrative authorities could only be appealed before the judiciary.
24. The right to peaceful assembly had been exercised in quantitatively and qualitatively
different ways throughout the country. More than 11,752 events had been organized in
2016, equal to an average of 32 events per day involving some 824,085 demonstrators.
25. Many public rallies and demonstrations had been held in the southern provinces. In
2016, for example, more than 755 events involving over 16,162 protesters had been
organized.
26. Regarding efforts to promote women’s rights, the delegation indicated that Law No.
113 had been adopted by the parliament to combat violence against women. The law
included a definition of violence and criminalized all acts that constituted violence against
women. In addition, 144 centres had been created to provide legal, psychological and
physical aid to women victims of violence.
27. The delegation pointed out that a law on human trafficking had also been adopted in
2016, based on four pillars: prevention, protection, continuity in the fight against trafficking
networks and partnership with civil society. Measures to protect victims and witnesses had
also been envisaged.
28. Regarding the right to work, the delegation highlighted that 51,000 jobs had been
created between 2010 and 2015 and the unemployment rate had decreased, reaching 8.6 per
cent in 2016. Moreover, programmes focused on incorporating youths into the labour
market had been carried out, resulting in more than 100,000 posts for young people in the
private sector. Furthermore, Morocco was implementing the “green programme”, which
aimed to achieve an increase in people working in the agricultural sector by 16 per cent.
29. Concerning the right to health, the delegation indicated that actions were being taken
to improve the medical system and that progress had been made to decrease the maternal
mortality rate, which had fallen by 66 per cent over the past 20 years. The delegation
emphasized the progress made in terms of education-related indicators between 2016 and
2017 in respect of primary and secondary education. In addition, a positive trend had been
noted regarding the education of girls in rural areas.
30. The delegation indicated that the number of people living in slums had dropped
considerably.
31. The delegation stated the following:
The Kingdom of Morocco has made efforts to improve the enjoyment of human
rights in the Moroccan Sahara, in particular the new model for the development of
the Southern Provinces, the advanced regionalization and the efficient role played by
the national institutions, in particular the National Human Rights Council through its
regional commissions in Laayoune and Dakhla, as well as the major and sustained
efforts undertaken by Morocco for the development, the protection and the
promotion of the Saharo hassani heritage which is enshrined in the 2011
Constitution as one of the components of the Moroccan identity. … Pending a final
and consensual political solution among all parties to the territorial dispute over the
Moroccan Sahara, the Kingdom of Morocco continues its efforts, in a participatory
and integrated approach, to promote rights and freedoms in the Moroccan Sahara as
there is no distinction in the Kingdom between the Sahara region and the other
regions.
The delegation affirmed that all Moroccan citizens were equal before the law in terms of
rights and responsibilities, as was the case in all democratic States. It ascertained that the
people of the Sahara were an integral component of the defence of the territorial integrity
and national unity and were associated in all development processes at the national,
regional and local levels, either through elected representative bodies, professional bodies
and civil society organizations that worked freely within the legal and constitutional
framework of the country.
32. The delegation added that “efforts are being deployed to promote the Amazigh
culture, which is enshrined in the Constitution” and that, “in 2016, 600 development
projects were being implemented in the Moroccan Sahara”.
33. The delegation stated that “the autonomy proposal made by the Kingdom of
Morocco constitutes a historic opportunity for reunification and a real framework for
development, protection and enjoyment of human rights, as well as a compromise final
solution which would enable the inhabitants of the Moroccan Sahara to manage their local
affairs within the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Morocco”.
34. The delegation highlighted that, over the previous two decades, Morocco had
become a major actor at the regional and international levels in the field of human rights,
hosting important international events such as the second session of the World Forum on
Human Rights, held in Marrakech in November 2014, and the twenty-second session of the
Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change.
35. Likewise, an international forum on the role of religious leaders in preventing
incitement to commit crimes of atrocity had been held in Fez in 2015, after which a draft
plan of action had been drawn up to prevent incitement to such crimes. The draft plan of
action was inspired by the Rabat Plan of Action on the prohibition of advocacy of national,
racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence,
adopted on 5 October 2012.
36. Morocco was co-chairing, with Germany, the Global Forum on Migration and
Development during 2017 and 2018.
37. The delegation thanked the members of the Human Rights Council, in particular
those who made statements.
B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
38. During the interactive dialogue, 25 delegations made statements. Recommendations
made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
39. Uruguay congratulated Morocco for its ratification of the International Convention
for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and the inclusion of its
provisions in the Criminal Code.
40. Viet Nam praised the political, normative and institutional reforms made by
Morocco, and the public policies for promoting and protecting economic, social and
cultural rights.
41. Yemen commended Morocco for ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention
against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and for
reforming the judicial system.
42. Zambia commended Morocco for facilitating the visit of four special procedure
mandate holders, submitting five national reports for consideration by the treaty bodies and
acceding to international human rights treaties.
43. While noting the significant strides made in numerous areas, Zimbabwe was
disheartened by the lack of reference in the national report to the reportedly undesirable
human rights and humanitarian situation in Western Sahara.
44. Qatar commended Morocco for its cooperation with the Human Rights Council
mechanisms and welcomed the recent adoption of several pieces of legislation establishing
constitutional institutions to promote and protect human rights.
45. Angola noted with satisfaction the reforms undertaken by Morocco aimed at
ensuring that the judiciary would be in line with international standards.
46. Argentina noted the discrimination suffered by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender
and intersex persons in Morocco. It welcomed the adoption of a law aimed at combating
trafficking.
47. Armenia encouraged Morocco to continue and further enhance activities directed
towards eliminating discrimination against women, in law and in practice.
48. Australia welcomed the ongoing work of Morocco to strengthen human rights,
including by providing training in observing elections, combating discrimination and
investigating and preventing torture.
49. Austria congratulated Morocco on efforts to protect women’s rights, its accession to
the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and its recognition of the rights of
the Amazigh people.
50. Azerbaijan highlighted the adoption of the national sustainable development strategy
for 2015-2020, which included several priority areas, including the environment.
51. Bahrain commended the tangible achievements in implementing the
recommendations arising from the second cycle of the universal periodic review and
appreciated the structural reforms made to develop the southern provinces.
52. Bangladesh commended Morocco for its keenness to mainstream human rights
perspectives into public policies and, especially, in the national sustainable development
strategy for 2015-2020.
53. Belgium encouraged Morocco to continue its efforts to implement the
recommendations accepted during the previous review, in particular those relating to
women’s rights.
54. Botswana welcomed the development of a national strategy and operational plan for
the elimination of violence against women.
55. Brazil congratulated Morocco for its efforts to strengthen the participation of women
in politics and requested more information about measures taken to raise the public’s
awareness of new human rights legislation.
56. Brunei Darussalam welcomed the measures taken by Morocco to improve the social
protection system and commended it for its achievements in combating poverty.
57. Burkina Faso commended Morocco for taking various measures to counter violence
against women, children, persons with disabilities and migrants, and urged it to continue its
efforts on human rights education.
58. Burundi congratulated Morocco for the numerous measures adopted since its
previous review to improve the human rights situation, including in the justice sector.
59. Canada appreciated the amendment to article 475 of the Criminal Code ending the
practice of allowing those who raped minors to escape imprisonment by marrying their
victims.
60. The Central African Republic expressed support for actions to improve the human
rights situation in the country and to rigorously address violations and abuses.
61. Chad welcomed several of the human rights achievements of Morocco, notably the
organization of the second session of the World Forum on Human Rights in 2014 and the
adoption of the law against human trafficking.
62. Chile congratulated Morocco for ratifying the International Convention for the
Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and the Optional Protocol to the
Convention against Torture.
63. China welcomed the charter on the reform of the judicial system, the national
sustainable development strategy for 2015-2020 and the plan for gender equality for 2012-
2016.
64. Colombia welcomed the incorporation of women’s rights into public policies and
the integrated public policy for the protection of children and persons with disabilities, as
well as the withdrawal of the reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All
Forms of Discrimination against Women.
65. The Congo praised the new immigration and asylum policy and encouraged
Morocco to continue its cooperation with human rights mechanisms.
66. Côte d’Ivoire commended Morocco for its efforts to accede to international human
rights instruments, for inviting special procedure mandate holders and for bringing its legal
framework into compliance with international law.
67. Croatia encouraged Morocco to develop a more advanced legal framework on child
marriage and the use of corporal punishment against children and to harmonize it with
international standards.
68. Cuba welcomed measures to promote, protect and follow up on the implementation
of the rights of the child, as well as the adoption of a holistic public policy to promote the
rights of persons with disabilities.
69. Cyprus commended Morocco for its policies and programmes to reduce poverty and
ensure the right to food. It also praised the efforts to promote and protect the country’s
cultural heritage.
70. Denmark noted as positive the passing of the new press code in 2016 but remained
concerned about the possible use of the Criminal Code’s provisions to imprison journalists
and restrict freedoms.
71. Djibouti appreciated the efforts made by Morocco to promote economic and social
rights, in particular with a view to reducing social inequality and poverty. It welcomed the
education strategy for 2015-2030.
72. Ecuador thanked Morocco for its justice reform, the public policies aimed at
protecting migrants and its initiatives to tackle climate change.
73. Egypt commended Morocco for the efforts made in the area of judicial reform and
the establishment of the Authority for Gender Equality and Action against All Forms of
Discrimination.
74. Estonia called for stepping up efforts to designate a national preventive mechanism
under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.
75. Ethiopia noted with satisfaction the plan for gender equality and the 2015-2020
national sustainable development strategy to promote and protect human rights.
76. France welcomed the progress made concerning the regularization of migrants since
2014. However, it noted that legal inequalities between men and women remained.
77. Gabon took note of the significant achievements made by Morocco since the
previous review in the area of promotion and protection of human rights.
78. Georgia encouraged the submission of a midterm report, as had been done in 2014,
and the effective implementation of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against
Torture.
79. Germany regretted that Morocco had not passed legislation penalizing domestic
violence, in line with a recommendation accepted by Morocco during the second cycle of
the universal periodic review.
80. Ghana noted with appreciation the accession by Morocco to some core human rights
treaties since its second-cycle review.
81. Greece congratulated Morocco for its efforts to strengthen the institutional and legal
framework for the promotion and protection of human rights.
82. Guatemala noted with appreciation the adoption of the national policy on migration
and asylum seekers in Morocco, as well as its implementation strategy.
83. Haiti noted with satisfaction the successful economic reforms and the progress made
concerning freedom of expression and the protection of the rights of migrant workers.
84. Honduras recognized the actions of Morocco in favour of vulnerable groups, the
national action plan for persons with disabilities and the recognition of the Amazigh
language.
85. Hungary commended Morocco for implementing the plan for gender equality 2012-
2016 but was concerned about the discrimination faced by Christians and other religious
minorities.
86. Iceland was concerned about reports of discrimination against members of the
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community. It urged Morocco to improve
the human rights situation in Western Sahara.
87. Indonesia commended Morocco, as a fellow core member of the Convention against
Torture Initiative, for its efforts to improve legislation on human rights.
88. The Islamic Republic of Iran commended Morocco for strengthening its social
policies to protect the human rights of vulnerable groups, including women, children and
persons with disabilities.
89. Iraq commended Morocco for the creation of the Ministry of Human Rights and the
Interministerial Human Rights Unit and the adoption of the national sustainable
development strategy for 2015-2020.
90. Ireland welcomed the steps taken towards gender equality and urged Morocco to
withdraw its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of
Discrimination against Women.
91. Italy congratulated Morocco for the progress achieved in the judicial system and for
actions taken to promote the work of mechanisms combating torture.
92. Jordan commended the measures taken to enhance gender equality and the efforts to
promote less developed regions and reduce poverty. It also welcomed the national plan for
children.
93. Kenya welcomed the participation of Morocco in the universal periodic review and
thanked it for its national report.
94. Kuwait commended the positive measures taken by Morocco to raise public
awareness of human rights and its commitment to the protection of human rights.
95. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic commended the measures taken by Morocco
to improve social protection by extending social and medical coverage to the whole
population.
96. Latvia commended the adoption of the 2016 press code. It noted that the
recommendation to ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court had
previously been accepted but not implemented.
97. Lebanon commended Morocco for its efforts to respect its obligations by enacting
legislation promoting freedom of opinion and expression, protecting the rights of journalists
and combating human trafficking.
98. Libya commended Morocco for making achievements since the previous universal
periodic review and for adopting national strategies for sustainable development and youth.
99. Madagascar commended Morocco for the establishment of an independent judicial
system and the adoption of policies aimed at protecting the rights of vulnerable groups.
100. The Maldives was encouraged by the efforts made by Morocco to protect the rights
of persons with disabilities through the implementation of a national action plan for their
social integration.
101. Mauritania commended Morocco for adopting a dynamic and participatory approach
to the preparation of its national reports and for the legislative reforms taken.
102. Mauritius welcomed the strategic vision for educational reform for 2015-2030,
which focused on fairness, on equality and on the promotion of the individual and society.
103. Mexico congratulated Morocco for its cooperation with OHCHR and noted that the
visit of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities was pending.
104. Montenegro encouraged Morocco to further reinforce the child protection policy and
intensify its efforts in combating violence against children in all its forms and in all
settings.
105. Mozambique welcomed the visits of special procedure mandate holders and the
submission of reports to treaty bodies.
106. Myanmar commended Morocco for its achievements in advancing human rights and
shared the concerns expressed regarding the high number of early marriages.
107. Namibia congratulated Morocco for ratifying several human rights treaties,
including the First Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights.
108. The Netherlands noted that positive steps had been taken, as a result of the adoption
of the 2011 Constitution. It welcomed specifically the legislative amendment regarding the
perpetrators of sexual violence against minors.
109. The Niger commended Morocco for its efforts to enable the national human rights
institution to be granted A status and for the reforms to the justice system.
110. Norway commended Morocco for amending article 475 of the Criminal Code and
for having started the process of adopting the law on violence against women.
111. Oman commended Morocco for its cooperation with the human rights mechanisms
and applauded its efforts to adopt a national strategy for sustainable development after
consultations with stakeholders.
112. Pakistan commended the public policies related to human rights, particularly for
vulnerable groups such as children, migrants, asylum seekers and persons with disabilities.
113. Paraguay welcomed the reforms made by Morocco to guarantee the adequate
functioning of the judiciary, to promote gender equality and implement policies to
safeguard the environment.
114. Peru welcomed the efforts made to strengthen citizen participation, improvements in
the social protection system and progress in the recognition of Amazigh culture and
language.
115. The Philippines welcomed the steps taken to regularize the situation of thousands of
migrants. It commended the enactment of the trafficking in persons law.
116. Portugal noted that Morocco had attentively followed the problem of out-of-school
youths and dropouts, as well as the difficulties in accessing education faced by the most
vulnerable groups.
117. Albania noted the progress made by Morocco in the domestic legal framework and
the establishment and consolidation of institutions provided for under the Constitution.
118. The Republic of Korea noted that increased monitoring and cross-cutting
coordination by the National Human Rights Council would lead to better protection of
human rights.
119. Romania welcomed the development of legislation establishing bodies holding
constitutional status for human rights protection and promotion, good governance,
sustainable human development and participatory democracy.
120. Rwanda commended Morocco for its progress in improving the social and economic
status of its citizens, in reforming the justice sector and in improving access to justice.
121. Saudi Arabia commended Morocco for its efforts to integrate human rights in public
policies and to promote the right to education in the context of the strategic vision for
reform for 2015-2030.
122. Senegal welcomed the adoption of an inclusive social policy targeting vulnerable
persons and thus contributing to a reduction in inequality and poverty, particularly in the
southern provinces.
123. Serbia encouraged Morocco to continue its policy of promoting gender equality, in
particular in the job market.
124. Sierra Leone commended Morocco for adopting the 2016 trafficking in persons act,
the efforts made to regularize the situation of migrants and grant asylum, the gender
equality plan and the child protection programme.
125. Singapore commended Morocco for its implementation of the National Initiative for
Human Development and the establishment of a social cohesion fund for persons with
specific needs.
126. Slovenia acknowledged the improvements made in terms of gender equality,
including the creation of the Authority for Gender Equality and Action against All Forms of
Discrimination, and noted that significant challenges remained.
127. South Africa said that it trusted that a political process with the Polisario Front
would be resumed with the aim of reaching a mutually acceptable political solution and that
it remained confident that a referendum would be held on the self-determination of the
people of Western Sahara.
128. South Sudan noted the wide-ranging reforms made to the justice sector, the efforts to
strengthen women’s participation in public life and the adoption of policies aimed at
combating poverty and social inequality.
129. Spain welcomed the adoption of the new Constitution, which accorded human rights
a prominent place and extended public freedoms.
130. Sri Lanka requested that Morocco share challenges and specific steps taken in the
process of adopting the draft law for the elimination of violence against women.
131. The State of Palestine commended Morocco for its efforts to alleviate poverty
through social and economic reforms and noted the improvements in education, including
regarding the indicators of children enrolled in education.
132. The Sudan commended Morocco for the steps taken since its second review, such as
the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture.
133. Sweden made recommendations.
134. Switzerland welcomed the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention
against Torture and said it would support efforts to establish a national mechanism for the
prevention of torture. Switzerland regretted that Morocco had not yet adopted the law on
violence against women.
135. Thailand welcomed the efforts made to guarantee the right to health by establishing
mobile hospitals in rural areas. It remained concerned about violence against women.
136. Togo noted the 2013 immigration and asylum policy allowing the reception and
regularization of the situation of migrants. It welcomed the remarkable work of the national
human rights institution.
137. Tunisia commended Morocco for its efforts to alleviate poverty and combat child
labour, and welcomed the adoption of the press law of 2016 and the law on military courts’
jurisdiction.
138. Turkey welcomed the reforms to the justice system, the equality plan, the policy on
child protection and the legislative reform improving women’s political participation.
139. Uganda commended Morocco for its active engagement in the universal periodic
review and with the treaty bodies, including the progress made on the national reform
agenda for strengthening human rights accountability.
140. Ukraine encouraged Morocco to ensure that the child protection policy covered all
areas under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
141. The United Arab Emirates commended Morocco for its adoption of the national
strategy on sustainable development for 2015-2020 and the establishment of several
programmes and funds relevant to environmental protection.
142. The United Kingdom welcomed the reforms aimed at increasing the separation of
powers and, in particular, at ending the trial of civilians in military courts. It urged the
implementation of reforms guaranteeing access to information and protecting journalistic
sources.
143. The United States of America expressed concern at the mechanisms to investigate
abuse and corruption, including in the security forces, and at the limitations imposed on the
full exercise of the freedoms of expression and association.
II. Conclusions and/or recommendations
144. The following recommendations will be examined by Morocco, which will
provide responses in due time, but no later than the thirty-sixth session of the Human
Rights Council:
144.1 Ratify the First Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights (Australia) (Georgia) (Spain); accede to the First
Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
(Portugal);
144.2 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty
(Belgium) (Estonia) (Hungary); accede to the Second Optional Protocol to the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of
the death penalty (Portugal) (Togo);
144.3 Move towards the ratification of the Second Optional Protocol to the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Chile);
144.4 Consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Norway);
144.5 Formally abolish the death penalty and ratify the Second Optional
Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
(Australia);
144.6 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on
Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (Portugal);
144.7 Sign and ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Italy);
144.8 Consider withdrawing the remaining declarations and reservations to
the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against
Women (Rwanda);
144.9 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the
Child on a communications procedure (Croatia) (Montenegro);
144.10 Accelerate the process for the ratification of the Optional Protocol to
the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure
(Georgia);
144.11 Ratify the Convention on the Non-Applicability of Statutory
Limitations to War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity (Armenia);
144.12 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and bring
national legislation into conformity with its provisions (Austria);
144.13 Ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Estonia);
144.14 Ratify and fully align its national legislation with the Rome Statute of
the International Criminal Court, as previously recommended (Latvia);
144.15 Consider ratifying the Rome Statute of the International Criminal
Court and fully align its legislation with all obligations under the Rome Statute
(Norway);
144.16 Ratify the Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189), of the
International Labour Organization (Philippines);
144.17 Adopt an open, merit-based selection process when selecting national
candidates for United Nations treaty body elections (United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland);
144.18 Take the necessary steps to achieve the total abolition of the death
penalty (Brazil);
144.19 Consider issuing a standing invitation to the special procedure
mandate holders (Austria);
144.20 Continue interacting constructively with the special procedure
mechanisms of the Human Rights Council (Côte d’Ivoire);
144.21 Extend a standing invitation to the special procedure mandate holders
of the Human Rights Council (Guatemala);
144.22 Issue a standing invitation to special procedures, as previously
recommended (Latvia);
144.23 Take concrete steps to strengthen its cooperation with the special
procedures of the United Nations, in particular those of the Human Rights
Council (Portugal);
144.24 Accept the establishment of a permanent rights component in the
United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara, given the
continuing need for independent and impartial monitoring of the human rights
situation in the place, as previously recommended (Uruguay);
144.25 Undertake to fully cooperate with the United Nations and, in
particular, the special envoy of the Secretary-General for Western Sahara
(Zimbabwe);
144.26 Comply with the provisions of Security Council resolution 2351 (2017),
which extends the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum
in Western Sahara and align itself with the principle of self-determination of
the Saharawi people (Mozambique);
144.27 Cooperate with the newly appointed special envoy of the Secretary-
General for Western Sahara (Mozambique);
144.28 Accept the inclusion of a human rights dimension in the mandate of the
United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (Namibia);
144.29 Continue to work with OHCHR and the Office of the United Nations
High Commissioner for Refugees to re-establish the humanitarian aid
programme for the Western Saharan population (Sierra Leone);
144.30 Fully cooperate with the Secretary-General, the African Union special
envoys and OHCHR on the situation in Western Sahara (South Africa);
144.31 Ensure that the Criminal Code is fully in accordance with the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Estonia);
144.32 Revise the Criminal Code and associated laws to ensure compliance
with international standards, guarantee equality between men and women,
criminalize marital rape, decriminalize sexual relations outside marriage,
abolish discrimination against children born outside marriage, increase the
minimum age of marriage to 18 years, decriminalize consensual same-sex
relations and develop public awareness programmes to address the
stigmatization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons
(Ireland);
144.33 Continue to strengthen its legislative and institutional framework for
the promotion and protection of human rights (Oman);
144.34 Adopt and apply a comprehensive anti-discrimination law (Ukraine);
144.35 Take steps to bring the definition of torture in line with the
requirements of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or
Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Ghana);
144.36 Adhere to and align national legislation with the Rome Statute,
including through the incorporation of provisions to cooperate promptly and
fully with the International Criminal Court (Guatemala);
144.37 Continue its steps to consolidate the principles of human rights and
public freedoms (Yemen);
144.38 Continue to mainstream human rights into various national bodies and
sectors (Egypt);
144.39 Continue to allocate the required funding for the implementation of
projects to increase the integration of human rights into public policies
(Ethiopia);
144.40 Consolidate the experience of regionalization and continue the
participation of youths and women in all the regions of the Kingdom, including
the southern provinces (Gabon);
144.41 Accelerate the implementation of the advanced regionalization, as a
means to further promote the participation of citizens, especially women and
youths, from the 12 regions of the Kingdom in the political and economic
governance of the country (Indonesia);
144.42 Continue to put in place public policies and programmes on human
rights, including on the effective role of parliamentarians in the promotion and
protection of human rights (Philippines);
144.43 Strengthen the achievements in the area of consolidation of human
rights (Senegal);
144.44 Continue reforms to consolidate the rule of law and the national
mechanisms for protection of human rights (Viet Nam);
144.45 Step up the process of creating the Authority for Gender Equality and
Action against All Forms of Discrimination (Gabon);
144.46 Continue efforts to support the role of regional committees of the
National Human Rights Council, especially in the southern provinces (Jordan);
144.47 Establish the Authority for Gender Equality and Action against All
Forms of Discrimination (Kuwait);
144.48 Establish an independent, effective and well-resourced national
preventive mechanism in compliance with the requirements of the Optional
Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or
Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Ghana);
144.49 Accelerate the process of establishing the national preventive
mechanism on torture (Greece);
144.50 Streamline the process for the establishment of the national mechanism
for the prevention of torture, ensuring broad and inclusive participation in the
same (Guatemala);
144.51 Intensify efforts to combat cases of torture and other ill-treatment by
State agents, establishing an independent and effective national mechanism for
the prevention of torture (Spain);
144.52 Ensure that a national preventive mechanism is swiftly established and
that the mechanism is underpinned by a legal basis and receives the human
resources and financial means necessary to carry out its mandate in an
independent and efficient manner (Switzerland);
144.53 Establish a mechanism to protect the rights of persons with disabilities
(Madagascar);
144.54 Establish a national mechanism for the protection of the rights of
persons with disabilities (Bahrain);
144.55 Continue promoting the role of national institutions for the protection
of human rights by supporting the activities of the regional committees of the
National Human Rights Council in various regions, in particular in the cities of
Laayoune and Dakhla in the southern provinces (Bahrain);
144.56 Support the action for the promotion and protection of human rights
undertaken by the National Human Rights Council through its regional
commissions throughout the territory (Central African Republic);
144.57 Continue efforts to establish and consolidate national institutions and
mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights (Gabon);
144.58 Ensure procedures governing the registration of civil society
organizations, including those advocating for the Saharawi people’s right to
self-determination (Iceland);
144.59 Strengthen the action taken by the national council for the promotion
and protection of human rights, in particular through its commissions
throughout the territory (Madagascar);
144.60 Continue to reinforce the role and capacity of the national human
rights institution, which was re-accredited A status in March 2016 in full
compliance with the principles relating to the status of national institutions for
the promotion and protection of human rights (the Paris Principles)
(Mauritania);
144.61 Ensure that the procedures governing the registration of civil society
organizations, including organizations advocating for the Saharawi people’s
right to self-determination, are in conformity with international standards
(Norway);
144.62 Continue the efforts of the Government to endow the national human
rights institution with sufficient budgetary resources (Togo);
144.63 Make further efforts to promote the culture of human rights and
human rights education (Lebanon);
144.64 Continue the positive experience of organizing human rights capacity-
building programmes for law enforcement agencies (Azerbaijan);
144.65 Continue to train public officials on human rights (Lebanon);
144.66 Promote human rights education and training of public servants, along
with the provision of necessary resources, at all levels. Local government
employees, who have the most direct effect on its people, most often lack
training in human rights or the resources to meet international standards on
human rights (Republic of Korea);
144.67 Ensure that adequate human and financial resources are allocated for
the implementation of programmes and activities on human rights
(Philippines);
144.68 Enable the people of Western Sahara to exercise their right to self-
determination through a democratic referendum (Zimbabwe);
144.69 Continue efforts to draw up a national framework for human
development that takes into consideration gender equality and non-
discrimination (Tunisia);
144.70 Decriminalize consensual homosexual relations and release those who
have been detained for that reason (Uruguay);
144.71 Repeal article 490 of the Criminal Code criminalizing sexual
relationships outside marriage in order to eliminate risks associated with
abandonment and institutional stigmatization of children born out of wedlock
(Belgium);
144.72 Prohibit discrimination and criminalize violence against persons on the
basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity (Canada);
144.73 Put an end to forms of discrimination (including legal ones) faced by
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons (France);
144.74 Decriminalize consensual relations between same-sex adults (Mexico);
144.75 Ensure the same rights to all citizens, including those of the lesbian,
gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex collective, decriminalizing same-sex
relationships and eliminating all discriminatory legislation on the basis of
sexual orientation (Spain);
144.76 Apply and adopt a comprehensive anti-discrimination law containing a
general prohibition of all forms of direct and indirect discrimination
(Hungary);
144.77 Decriminalize consensual sexual relations, including by repealing the
provisions in articles 489 to 493 of the Criminal Code prohibiting same-sex
sexual relations, sexual relations outside marriage and adultery (Netherlands);
144.78 Adopt a comprehensive anti-discrimination law (South Africa);
144.79 Take urgent measures to repeal the norms that criminalize and
stigmatize lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons and
investigate and punish the perpetrators of acts of discrimination and violence
against them (Argentina);
144.80 Repeal legislation, in particular article 489 of the Criminal Code,
criminalizing consensual sexual conduct between same-sex adults (Iceland);
144.81 Continue efforts to achieve the national strategic goals for sustainable
development (2015-2020) (Oman);
144.82 Continue to develop and implement development programmes and to
improve the economic capacities of the entire country, including in the southern
provinces of Morocco (Saudi Arabia);
144.83 Speed up the implementation of the national policy on climate change
(Cuba);
144.84 Strengthen the mainstreaming of environmental rights within the
elaboration and implementation of development strategies (Indonesia);
144.85 Revise the provisions of the Criminal Code on terrorism and define
terrorism-related offences more clearly and precisely (Hungary);
144.86 Revise the provisions of the Criminal Code on terrorism with a view to
defining precisely terrorism-related offences and ensure legislation is in line
with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Albania);
144.87 With reference to the recently expressed concern by the Economic and
Social Council about the presence of the berm, continue to implement the
demining programme along the berm and compensate victims (Namibia);
144.88 Continue efforts to remove landmines and other explosive remnants of
war (Peru);
144.89 Adhere to and adapt national legislation to the Arms Trade Treaty
(Guatemala);
144.90 Implement the recommendations from the second cycle contained in
A/HRC/21/3, paras. 129.62 and 129.65, and unequivocally ban corporal
punishment in all places, including at home, in alternative care institutions, in
day nurseries and in schools (Haiti);
144.91 Establish legislation that prohibits corporal punishment and the ill-
treatment of boys and girls (Paraguay);
144.92 Abolish the death penalty (France);
144.93 Intensify national discussions with a view to abolishing the death
penalty (Italy);
144.94 Keep the moratorium on the death penalty and intensify dialogue on
capital punishment and its impact, towards its full abolition for all crimes
(Montenegro);
144.95 Continue the current national debate on the abolition of the death
penalty and consider formalizing the de facto moratorium currently observed
(Albania);
144.96 Maintain its de facto moratorium on the use of the death penalty with a
view towards its total abolition, including through the ongoing process of
reform of the Criminal Code (Rwanda);
144.97 Continue the national debate on the abolition of the death penalty
(South Africa);
144.98 Consider formalizing the de facto moratorium on the death penalty
(Ukraine);
144.99 Consider abolishing capital punishment (Namibia);
144.100 Eliminate the death penalty from its national legislation (Paraguay);
144.101 Maintain the moratorium on the death penalty, followed by the
definitive abolition of the death penalty (Austria);
144.102 Continue the socioeconomic programmes for detainees in relation to
their post-detention socio-professional reinsertion, in particular in favour of
women and youths (Central African Republic);
144.103 Accelerate the process of revising the legal framework regulating
prisons in order to harmonize it with international standards (Cyprus);
144.104 Take the necessary measures to resolve the problem of prison
overcrowding (Greece);
144.105 Continue to improve the conditions in prisons, reduce crowding and
adopt alternatives to pretrial detention and provide adequate medical care to
prisoners (Kenya);
144.106 Accelerate the process of revising the legislative framework governing
prisons with a view to harmonizing it with the 2011 Constitution and
international standards (Pakistan);
144.107 Adopt the proposed amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure to
ensure respect for guarantees and safeguards in detention (Ghana);
144.108 Strengthen its national mechanisms and international cooperation to
combat trafficking in persons and, particularly, child sex tourism (Honduras);
144.109 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking and ensure that special
attention is given to vulnerable groups when applying the law adopted in this
regard (Qatar);
144.110 Develop a national strategy to tackle modern slavery and ratify the
2014 Protocol to the Forced Labour Convention of the International Labour
Organization (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
144.111 Remove restrictive practices against Christians and other minorities,
including limitations on religious activities, freedom of thought and conscience,
in accordance with international law (Kenya);
144.112 Ensure that the relevant provisions of the Criminal Code are brought
into line with the obligations of Morocco under the International Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights, in particular with regard to freedom of speech and
opinion (Zambia);
144.113 Refrain from referring to laws other than the press code when dealing
with infractions of the freedom of expression (Denmark);
144.114 Fully ensure the freedoms of expression and association and take all
necessary measures to ensure that human rights defenders can carry out their
missions (France);
144.115 Continue the work to enhance freedom of expression through the
implementation of the law establishing the National Press Council (Qatar);
144.116 Review Criminal Code provisions regarding freedom of expression, in
conformity with article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights (Netherlands);
144.117 Ensure the Constitution’s provisions on freedom of the press, freedom
of opinion and expression and freedom of assembly and association are
respected, including for people who want to express their views on the situation
of and in Western Sahara (Sweden);
144.118 End the prosecution of journalists under the Criminal Code for
peacefully exercising their right to freedom of opinion and expression and for
ensuring the right to information (Sweden);
144.119 End the prosecution of and release journalists and other individuals
detained solely for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful
assembly and association (United States of America);
144.120 Create and maintain, in law and in practice, a safe and enabling
environment for civil society and human rights defenders, including in and in
relation to Western Sahara, through a revision of the Criminal Code and
remove limitations on freedom of expression, review the system for registration
of associations and notification of assemblies and consistent application of rules
to all peaceful assemblies irrespective of their topic (Ireland);
144.121 Remove obstacles to non-governmental associations seeking
registration from the authorities (Sweden);
144.122 Approve the licence applications for all non-governmental associations
seeking registration in accordance with the law, including organizations
advocating for members of minority populations (United States of America);
144.123 Conduct full, impartial and independent investigations into all
allegations of corruption or abuse by security forces and prosecute those
responsible where appropriate (United States of America);
144.124 Take further steps to ensure judicial independence, which is important
in guaranteeing fair trials in accordance with international human rights
standards (Australia);
144.125 Complete reforms of the judiciary (Kuwait);
144.126 Accelerate the implementation of the charter on the reform of the
judicial system (Sri Lanka);
144.127 Continue completing the process of reforming the justice system and
guarantee the independence of the judiciary in accordance with the relevant
constitutional requirements (Sudan);
144.128 Revise the Criminal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code as part of
the ongoing reform of the justice sector (United Kingdom of Great Britain and
Northern Ireland);
144.129 Take the necessary measures to repeal all legal provisions that
establish differences between children born in wedlock and children born out
of wedlock, in particular those contained in the Family Code that were
discriminatory against such children (Argentina);
144.130 Analyse existing legislation and repeal all rules, in particular those of
the Family Code, which are contrary to the principle of equality between
children or which constitute a discrimination of the rights of the child (Chile);
144.131 Repeal all discriminatory provisions in relation to children born out of
wedlock (Congo);
144.132 Repeal the provision preventing Moroccan women from transmitting
nationality to their foreign husband (Congo);
144.133 Repeal provisions which deny women legal guardianship of minor
children on an equal footing with men (Denmark);
144.134 Abolish the criminalization of single mothers, allow full legal
recognition of children born outside marriage (including with regard to their
name and right of inheritance) and introduce DNA testing to ascertain
paternity (Germany);
144.135 Consider eliminating from identity documents all data that could lead
to discrimination against children born out of wedlock (Peru);
144.136 Improve the existing procedures for registering children to guarantee
equality for children and equal legal treatment without any discrimination
(Serbia);
144.137 Repeal the provisions in the Family Code which discriminate against
children born outside of wedlock (Togo);
144.138 Withdraw any reference in identity documents which would allow for
the identification of children born outside of wedlock and repeal all
discriminatory provisions regarding such children, in particular in the Family
Code (Turkey);
144.139 Eliminate fees for birth certificates and facilitate the issuance of birth
certificates to all refugee children who do not have any yet (Turkey);
144.140 Allocate more resources for the implementation of national policies in
favour of vulnerable social groups (Viet Nam);
144.141 Continue and speed up efforts to promote economic, social and cultural
rights for the whole population (Djibouti);
144.142 Continue efforts to promote and protect economic and social rights
through development strategies to encourage investment and employment
(Saudi Arabia);
144.143 Improve the identification of eligible beneficiaries of social protection
schemes (Islamic Republic of Iran);
144.144 Continue to promote the consolidation of its social policies and combat
poverty and inequality, which are still present (Angola);
144.145 Continue efforts to protect economic and social rights through the
implementation of programmes to fight poverty, in the framework of the
national human development initiative (Côte d’Ivoire);
144.146 Continue to implement policies to fight poverty and promote economic
development (Egypt);
144.147 Continue endeavours to reduce poverty and bridge the income gap
between the different regions and between rural and urban areas (Islamic
Republic of Iran);
144.148 Continue strengthening programmes to reduce poverty through the
National Initiative for Human Development (Pakistan);
144.149 Share its experience with others in the field of human development and
poverty reduction (South Sudan);
144.150 Continue to adopt measures to further improve the lives of vulnerable
people in the country (Brunei Darussalam);
144.151 Ensure an equitable distribution of resources between rural and urban
areas (State of Palestine);
144.152 Continue its good work to reduce the prevailing high unemployment
rate in the country (Bangladesh);
144.153 Continue to promote economic and social development to steadily raise
peoples’ living standards so as to provide a firm foundation for the enjoyment
of all human rights (China);
144.154 Strengthen the laws ensuring the reduction of unemployment rates and
increase employment opportunities to contribute to the achievement of
sustainable development (Iraq);
144.155 Continue efforts to reduce unemployment rates among youths,
including by strengthening vocational training programmes (Libya);
144.156 Establish dialogues to engage in cooperation that will allow for the
application of best practices and plans to reduce unemployment,
underemployment and informal work, and strengthen the policies for the
generation of employment and youth employment (Paraguay);
144.157 Further strengthen the promotion of environmental rights through
their incorporation into social and economic development plans in the entire
Kingdom (United Arab Emirates);
144.158 Continue to implement policies and develop infrastructure that
increase access to employment, particularly for youths (Singapore);
144.159 Adopt a draft law regulating the labour conditions of domestic workers
(Turkey);
144.160 Continue to provide basic medical cover for its people, including the
elderly (Brunei Darussalam);
144.161 Improve the social protection system with a view to extending social
and medical coverage to everyone (Cuba);
144.162 As a follow-up to the recommendations from the second cycle
contained in A/HRC/21/3, paras. 129.98, 129.102, 129.111, 129.116, 129.117 and
130.9, increase investments in public education with a view to increasing the
salaries of teachers and introducing professional and technical training
programmes (Haiti);
144.163 Increase access to health services in rural areas, in particular to reduce
maternal mortality and morbidity (Republic of Korea);
144.164 Further promote prenatal care and consultation to reduce the need for
emergency transportation at the time of labour and thereby reduce the risk of
death among mothers and children (Thailand);
144.165 Take further targeted measures to promote inclusive education for all
(Armenia);
144.166 Implement the strategic vision for education reform for 2015-2030
(Burundi);
144.167 Continue efforts to promote inclusive education by strengthening
access to education for persons with disabilities (Ecuador);
144.168 Continue to strengthen further the right to education (Mauritius);
144.169 Put in place a strategy or a plan of action to fight illiteracy (Niger);
144.170 Consider eliminating differences in schooling between cities and rural
areas, between girls and boys and among minorities (Peru);
144.171 Implement measures to ensure inclusive education for all at the
primary, secondary and university levels (Portugal);
144.172 Take further steps in the field of promotion of economic, social and
cultural rights, especially in the sector of education, with a special focus on the
enrolment of girls and boys in rural areas (Romania);
144.173 Support the right to education by implementing the strategic vision to
reform the education system for the period 2015-2030 (Saudi Arabia);
144.174 Consolidate and support the promotion of education for economically
vulnerable children (South Sudan);
144.175 Continue efforts to ensure that all children enrol in elementary school
and to consider the necessary measures to reach out to children deprived of an
education (State of Palestine);
144.176 Continue efforts to promote the right to education by combating the
phenomenon of children dropping out of school (Sudan);
144.177 Continue efforts to reform the public education system and improve
the quality of public education to achieve equal opportunities between social
classes (Tunisia);
144.178 Increase efforts to ensure the school enrolment of all children at the
primary and secondary levels (Turkey);
144.179 Review and where necessary adapt school and early childhood
education curricula, teaching and school practices to foster the elimination of
gender-based discrimination and stereotyping, as well as to promote the
empowerment of girls from an early age (Botswana);
144.180 Promote programmes that encourage the education of children,
especially girls in villages, and benefit vulnerable groups (United Arab
Emirates);
144.181 Continue efforts to promote cultural rights through programmes to
protect and revitalize the diversity of cultural heritage constituting the
Moroccan identity, including the Hassani heritage in the southern provinces
(United Arab Emirates);
144.182 Continue to promote equality between men and women in public
policies (Egypt);
144.183 Continue to promote gender equality and women’s involvement in
politics and public service (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);
144.184 Continue the commendable efforts to promote and protect the rights of
women and children (Mauritania);
144.185 Review all laws and practices that discriminate on the basis of gender
and bring them into line with international law and standards and take steps to
further improve the protection of women who are subjected to violence,
including by amending the Criminal Code to ensure the criminalization of
marital rape (Sweden);
144.186 Revise the Family Code to prohibit polygamy and the marriage of
minors, as well as to guarantee equality between men and women in inheritance
matters and in the right to guardianship (Norway);
144.187 As a follow-up to the recommendations from the second cycle
contained in A/HRC/21/3, paras. 129.19, 129.22, 129.27, 129.39, 129.40, 129.43,
129.78, 129.88, 129.93 and 131.7, intensify efforts towards improving the
economic, social and cultural rights of the female population, with their full
participation (Haiti);
144.188 Adopt comprehensive and integral legislation to eliminate
discrimination and all forms of violence against women and to promote their
advancement in all areas, including the economic area (Honduras);
144.189 Strengthen the existing legal framework to protect women against all
forms of violence and eliminate all discriminatory gender-based legal norms
(Chile);
144.190 Take all necessary measures to strengthen the fight against domestic
violence and sexual violence against women (France);
144.191 Take appropriate measures, taking into consideration its international
obligations, to prevent the marriage of minors (Myanmar);
144.192 Continue to put into place practical measures at the local and national
levels to ensure gender equality and combat discrimination against women
(Singapore);
144.193 Continue efforts to combat violence against women (Tunisia);
144.194 Amend domestic legislation to remove all forms of gender-based
discrimination and protect the rights of women and children (Australia);
144.195 Expedite the adoption of draft law 103.13 on violence against women,
while taking into account the importance of widening the protection for women
victims of violence, and criminalize marital rape (Belgium);
144.196 Continue its efforts to improve legislation concerning violence against
women, in line with international standards, addressing the dimensions of
prevention, protection and assistance, and repealing discriminatory provisions
related to custody, marriage, inheritance and transfer of nationality (Brazil);
144.197 Criminalize marital rape and threats of violence as part of its draft law
103.13 on combating violence against women and implement State-sponsored
programmes to support victims (Canada);
144.198 Implement adequate measures to ensure the comprehensive and
effective protection of women against domestic violence and accelerate the
drafting process of a bill that is consistent with international standards in this
area (Germany);
144.199 Strengthen the legal framework to prevent discrimination and violence
against women, in particular domestic violence (Italy);
144.200 Accelerate the process of adoption of the draft law on the elimination
of the violence against women (Jordan);
144.201 Continue aligning legislation, policies and programmes that anchor the
rights of the child in order to stop children from working in harmful
conditions, stop early marriages and criminalize all forms of child exploitation
(Kenya);
144.202 Adopt specific legislation on violence against women, including
criminal and civil provisions necessary to address domestic violence and sexual
harassment against women and girls (Mexico);
144.203 Implement the law on violence against women swiftly (Norway);
144.204 Adopt a general law on violence against women, in accordance with
international standards, providing the means for its effective implementation
(Paraguay);
144.205 Strengthen legislation to ensure gender equality, in particular to
prevent violence against women and stop early and forced marriages (Republic
of Korea);
144.206 Accelerate the enactment of the law on violence against women and the
adoption of the international definition of gender-based violence (Slovenia);
144.207 Further progress in the fight against all forms of discrimination and
violence against women, putting into operation the Authority for Gender
Equality and Action against All Forms of Discrimination (Spain);
144.208 Adopt and implement a comprehensive and non-discriminatory law on
violence against women and girls (Switzerland);
144.209 Put into place specific legislation to prevent, investigate and punish
violence against women (Uganda);
144.210 Adjust the new abortion law protocol to give women the right to abort
in cases of incest and rape based on the police report only (Slovenia);
144.211 Step up efforts to combat violence against women by strictly enforcing
relevant laws and improve victim support mechanisms (Thailand);
144.212 Take additional measures on domestic violence (Greece);
144.213 Amend the law on inheritance in the Family Code in order to respect
gender equality, as stipulated in article 19 of the Constitution of Morocco
(Canada);
144.214 Adopt appropriate measures with a view to integrating women more in
economic activities and guarantee them the right to equal treatment and equal
pay for work of equal value (Serbia);
144.215 Make further reforms to the Family Code to remove all exceptions that
allow marriage of children under the age of 18 years of age (Botswana);
144.216 Ensure that the minimum age of marriage at 18 years of age is
respected, including by preventing judges from authorizing children to marry
under article 20 of the Family Code (Canada);
144.217 Eliminate the harmful practice of early marriage and raise awareness
among the public and parents for the effective protection of minor girls
(Croatia);
144.218 Strengthen measures aimed at eradicating child marriages and
expedite the enactment of legislation abolishing the forced marriage of children
(Sierra Leone);
144.219 Take measures to counteract the trend of judicial authorizations of
marriages involving minors, including through necessary amendments to the
Family Code (Sweden);
144.220 Strengthen the promotion of political participation of women and
youth (Ecuador);
144.221 Continue efforts to promote the political participation of women
(Jordan);
144.222 Take more effective measures to better protect the rights of children,
persons with disabilities, migrants and other vulnerable groups (China);
144.223 Continue efforts to ensure vulnerable children and adolescents in rural
communities access quality education and health-care services (Lao People’s
Democratic Republic);
144.224 Continue to strengthen the relevant public policies on the promotion
and protection of human rights, particularly the rights of children, migrants
and asylum seekers and persons with disabilities (Romania);
144.225 Continue its efforts to combat child labour through the effective
implementation of the domestic workers labour and employment conditions act
(Maldives);
144.226 Prohibit and criminalize explicitly the recruitment and use in hostilities
of children under 18 years (Ukraine);
144.227 Continue its efforts for the protection and promotion of the human
rights of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities and children
(Cyprus);
144.228 Further accelerate efforts aimed at promoting the rights of women and
children, in particular those with disabilities (Georgia);
144.229 Continue taking comprehensive measures to better integrate persons
with disabilities into society (Hungary);
144.230 Continue to reinforce the implementation of public policies regarding
persons with disabilities (Libya);
144.231 Integrate sign language into public media and provide training for
interpreters in that field (Madagascar);
144.232 Continue its appreciable efforts towards the development of national
languages and promote and protect the Amazigh language and cultural
heritages (Bangladesh);
144.233 Continue efforts to introduce the teaching of the Amazigh language
and culture (Burundi);
144.234 Continue efforts towards the promotion and preservation of the
Saharo-Hassani cultural heritage, as enshrined in the 2011 Constitution
(Burundi);
144.235 Continue to adopt the legislative measures and protection policies
necessary to ensure education for the Amazigh and Saharawi populations at all
levels, as well as the full enjoyment of their rights to demonstrate and
participate in the cultural life of the country, preserving their traditions and
identity (Mexico);
144.236 Guarantee the full and equal access to socioeconomic resources,
(including access to tertiary education and traditional language classes) for the
Amazigh and Saharan/Saharawi people (Sierra Leone);
144.237 Continue the implementation of the policy of effective promotion and
protection of the rights of migrants (Central African Republic);
144.238 Continue efforts to promote and protect the rights of migrants
(Djibouti);
144.239 Thoroughly review the national legislation on migration and asylum
(Honduras);
144.240 Speed up the review of the legal framework on migration and asylum
in order to align it with the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights (Uganda);
144.241 Consider sharing with other countries the Moroccan experience
regarding the protection and promotion of the rights of migrants (Senegal);
144.242 Accede to and domesticate the conventions relating to the status of
stateless persons and the reduction of statelessness in order to grant nationality
to children who would otherwise remain stateless (Kenya);
144.243 Allow the Saharawi people to freely exercise their inalienable right to
self-determination in accordance with General Assembly resolutions and in this
context accept a schedule proposed by the Secretary-General on the
organization of a referendum on self-determination in Western Sahara
(Namibia);
144.244 Develop and implement independent and credible measures to ensure
full respect for human rights in Western Sahara, including the freedom of
expression and assembly (Iceland).
145. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect
the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not
be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.
Annex
[Original: English/French]
Composition of the delegation
The delegation of Morocco was headed by the Minister for Human Rights, Mostafa
Ramid, and composed of the following members:
• M. Driss Najim, Cabinet du Ministre;
• M. Hassane Boukili, Chargé d’affaires Mission du Maroc;
• M. Saïd Ahouga, Ministre Plénipotentiaire;
• Mme. Siham Mourabit, Ministère des Affaires Etrangères et de la Coopération
Intérnationale;
• Mme. Nezha El Hadrami, Ministère de la Communication;
• Mme. Touria Elafti, Secrétariat d’Etat Chargé de l’Eau;
• Mme. Hanane Bidrane, Délégation Interministérielle aux Droits de l’Homme;
• M. Fouad Zyadi, Secrétariat d’Etat Chargé de Développement Durable;
• M. Mohammed El Azzouzi, Administration de la Défense Nationale;
• M. Azzouz Attaoui, Ministère de la Famille de Solidarité, de l’Egalité, et du
Développement Social;
• M. Lahoucine Amouzay, Institut Royal de la Culture Amazighe;
• M. Said Machak, Ministère Chargé des Marocains Résidants à l’Etranger et des
Affaires de la Migration;
• Mme. Karima Brahimi, Ministère de l’Intérieur /DRLP;
• Mme. Mouna Lemzouri, Ministère de la Justice;
• M. Brahim Bastaoui, Ministère de l’Intérieur;
• M. Hssain Oujour, Education Nationale;
• M. Abderrazak Rouane, Délégation Interministérielle aux Droits de l’Homme;
• M. Abdelaziz Karraky, Délégation Interministérielle aux Droits de l’Homme;
• M. Mohamed Adi, Délégation Interministérielle aux Droits de l’Homme;
• M. Mohammed Ait Azizi, Ministère de la Famille de Solidarité, de l’Egalité, et du
Développement Social;
• M. Toufik El Atifi, Ministère de Travail;
• Mme. Mouna Bengrine, Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances;
• M. Moulay Ahmed Mghizlat, CORCAS;
• M. Abdeslam Nadah, HCP.