The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Morocco are deepening their strategic collaboration on critical fronts including human rights, healthcare, and gender equality, with a strong emphasis on field interventions and public policy support.
Alfonso Barragues, Deputy Director of the UNFPA Liaison Office, highlighted the progress during a meeting with El Habib Belkouch, Morocco’s Interministerial Delegate for Human Rights, held on the sidelines of the 62nd session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Key priorities in this partnership include enhancing maternal health and reducing pregnancy-related mortality. The UNFPA is also intensifying efforts to combat violence against women and girls, as well as harmful practices such as early marriage.
The initiative places significant focus on expanding access to sexual and reproductive health services. According to Barragues, the goal is to ensure equitable coverage nationwide by bringing these services closer to communities through a strengthened network of primary healthcare facilities. “Women and girls must have access to healthcare, including sexual and reproductive services, not only in major hospitals but also in local health centers across the country,” he emphasized.
The UNFPA is also assisting Moroccan institutions in designing and implementing public policies, supporting ministries of Education, Health, and Social Protection. “Our role is to help these ministries develop and execute policies that uphold human rights and gender equality,” Barragues noted, underscoring the integrated approach of the collaboration.
Grounded in local impact
This partnership is rooted in the belief that real change happens at the grassroots level. The UNFPA is working closely with women’s organizations and youth groups, alongside Moroccan authorities, to translate international commitments into tangible actions.
The cooperation with the Interministerial Delegation for Human Rights reflects a commitment to monitoring and applying global recommendations, ensuring they lead to measurable progress. “Our partnership with the DIDH is strategic,” Barragues stated, reinforcing the UNFPA’s dedication to a long-term, sustainable alliance with Morocco to advance human rights effectively.
