Morocco is taking a significant step forward in its fight against gender — based violence with the impending launch of a dedicated central unit aimed at combating the pervasive issue.
The announcement came from the nation’s Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family, Naima Benyahia, who revealed during a session at the House of Representatives that the unit, previously dormant, will soon be officially activated.
The new unit is a response to the alarming rates of violence against women in Morocco, which the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) has labeled as the most widespread human rights violation globally.
The council has reported that an estimated 140 women and girls are killed each day, equating to nearly one life lost every 10 minutes. This revelation underscores the urgency of the new unit’s mission. Benyahia emphasized the importance of establishing a national body to bolster the legal and institutional framework for protecting women and combating gender-based violence.
This initiative aligns with existing legislation, including Law No. 103. 13, a cornerstone of Morocco’s national policy against violence against women.
Last week, Benyahia also announced the appointment of a new president for the National Commission for Combating Violence Against Women, which is tasked with overseeing the implementation of Law No. 103. 13.
This commission plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective enforcement of the law and providing support to victims.
In addition to domestic efforts, Morocco has been actively participating in international forums to advance women’s rights.
The country’s engagement in the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at UN headquarters in New York highlighted its commitment to strengthening women’s and girls’access to justice. Morocco’s participation in this session also contributed to reinforcing its position as a regional model in the protection of women victims of violence. Despite the progress made and the commendations received for advancing women’s rights, significant gaps remain between legal reforms and the lived realities of women in Morocco.
The launch of the new central unit represents a crucial step in narrowing this gap and ensuring that the rights of women are truly protected.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: moroccoworldnews
Source: Hanane Afeznaoui
