Amina Bouayach has been elected as the new chairperson of GANHRI during its General Assembly in Geneva, reflecting Africa’s regained leadership after ten years. Her election signifies a collective commitment to advancing human rights despite global challenges. She will serve for three years, succeeding Maryam Al Attiyah, with Alyson Kilpatrick also elected as GANHRI Secretary.
Amina Bouayach, the President of Morocco’s National Human Rights Council (CNDH), has been unanimously chosen as the new chairperson of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI). Her election occurred during the General Assembly in Geneva, coinciding with the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council, where all A-status accredited national human rights institutions endorsed her candidacy.
Her nomination was supported by NHRI representatives globally, after being put forth by the Network of African National Human Rights Institutions (NANHRI). With Morocco’s CNDH at the helm, Africa regains the presidency of GANHRI, a role last held by an African representative a decade ago.
Following the election, Bouayach expressed her gratitude for the confidence placed in her by fellow African delegates and international human rights advocates. She recognized the collective effort of African NHRIs in advocating for human rights across the continent and beyond, underscoring their crucial role in addressing various global challenges.
Bouayach’s leadership emerges during a vital period for GANHRI, as it navigates challenges posed by increasing pressures on multilateralism and budgetary limitations impacting NHRIs. She addressed the urgent need for vigilance and collective action amidst threats to rights and freedoms worldwide, highlighting issues such as digital advancements, armed conflicts, gender equality, and climate change.
Amina Bouayach succeeds Maryam Al Attiyah of Qatar, and her term will last for three years. Additionally, Alyson Kilpatrick from Northern Ireland was elected as GANHRI Secretary, taking over from Bouayach.
In summary, Amina Bouayach’s election as chairperson of GANHRI marks a significant return of African leadership within the global human rights community. Her commitment highlights the importance of collaborative efforts by national human rights institutions to tackle pressing societal challenges. The election reflects a moment of renewed focus on collective action to address human rights issues amidst ongoing global pressures.
Original Source: www.maroc.ma
