Re-election of Morocco's representative to UN Human Rights Committee

Morocco has secured a significant victory in the recent elections to the UN Human Rights Committee, with Mahjoub El Haiba re-elected to serve for the 2025-2028 term.

The election took place during the 40th Meeting of States Parties to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Morocco's candidacy was endorsed by an overwhelming majority, garnering 120 votes in favor. Mr. El Haiba was among sixteen candidates competing for one of the nine vacant positions on the Committee, a testament to the Kingdom's credibility and the trust it has built under the leadership of King Mohammed VI.

This re-election underscores Morocco's commitment to promoting human rights, both through extensive democratic reforms at the national level and proactive initiatives at the multilateral level. The successful campaign is also a reflection of Morocco's strategy, guided by royal directives, to leverage its expertise in priority areas of multilateral action for the benefit of UN bodies.

Mr. El Haiba, a distinguished university professor with a long-standing career in human rights, has previously served as the Secretary General of the Advisory Council for Human Rights (now the National Human Rights Council) and as the First Inter-ministerial Delegate for Human Rights. Since his initial election to the Human Rights Committee, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing the working methods of this crucial body.

The Human Rights Committee, consisting of eighteen experts elected by States Parties based on equitable geographical distribution, oversees the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, adopted in 1966. The Committee's mandate includes examining State reports on Covenant implementation, preparing general observations on the obligations therein, and reviewing communications on Covenant violations.

Morocco's re-election to this esteemed Committee reflects a robust diplomatic effort and highlights the Kingdom's role as a committed and responsible actor in the international community.

Despite its significant role in promoting and protecting human rights, the UNHRC has faced several criticisms over the years.