Amina Bouayach from Morocco was unanimously elected as GANHRI chairperson during the UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva. Her election highlights Africa’s renewed leadership in global human rights advocacy. Bouayach emphasized the challenges faced by NHRIs and the importance of collective action to protect human rights.
Amina Bouayach, President of Morocco’s National Human Rights Council (CNDH), has been unanimously elected as the new chairperson of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI). This election occurred during GANHRI’s General Assembly in Geneva alongside the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council. Voting was conducted by all national human rights institutions (NHRIs) with A-status accreditation.
Bouayach received wide support for her candidacy from NHRI representatives across all global regions, receiving endorsement from the Network of African National Human Rights Institutions (NANHRI). Her candidacy was officially confirmed at NANHRI’s General Assembly prior to the GANHRI elections. With this new leadership, Morocco’s CNDH marks Africa’s return to the presidency of the global alliance after a decade.
Upon her election, Bouayach expressed her honor and gratitude for the support from her African peers and global human rights advocates. She acknowledged the commitment of African NHRIs and emphasized their critical role in addressing daily challenges in human rights protection and promotion. The timing of her election is notable as GANHRI faces pressures on multilateralism and financial limitations affecting NHRIs.
Bouayach asserted that the increasing threats to rights and freedoms necessitate a profound responsibility. She underscored the importance of collective vigilance and action against various issues, such as the impacts of technology, civic space reduction, armed conflict, gender equality, violence against women, climate change, and economic disparities.
Bouayach succeeds Qatari Maryam Al Attiyah for a three-year term, while Alyson Kilpatrick from Northern Ireland has been elected as GANHRI Secretary, taking over the role from Bouayach.
Amina Bouayach’s election as the chairperson of GANHRI marks a significant moment for African representation in global human rights leadership. Her commitment to addressing pressing issues and fostering collective action highlights the challenges faced by NHRIs. Bouayach’s presidency comes at a critical time, emphasizing the need for vigilance and unified efforts in promoting human rights amidst increasing global threats.
Original Source: www.maroc.ma
