The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Morocco are deepening their collaboration on critical issues concerning human rights, health, and gender equality. The partnership emphasizes field-level interventions and support for public policies.

Alfonso Barragues, deputy director of the UNFPA liaison office, highlighted this progress on Tuesday, June 23, in Geneva. His remarks followed 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.

Key pillars of this partnership include enhancing maternal health and reducing deaths linked to pregnancy and childbirth. The UNFPA also aims to intensify efforts against violence targeting women and girls, and to combat harmful practices such as early marriage.

A central component of the program is expanding access to sexual and reproductive health services. Barragues stressed the importance of ensuring equitable coverage nationwide by bringing these services closer to communities through a reinforced network of care facilities. “Access for women and girls to health services, including sexual and reproductive health, must be guaranteed across the country—not only in hospitals but also at the primary healthcare level,” he stated.

Beyond sector-specific initiatives, the UNFPA supports Moroccan institutions in designing and implementing public policies. This assistance extends to several ministries, including those responsible for education, health, and social protection. Barragues confirmed that the organization is committed to “helping the relevant ministries formulate and execute public policies,” reflecting a comprehensive and integrated approach.

A partnership grounded in local realities

This cooperation is built on the conviction that the true impact of public policies depends on their local implementation. The UNFPA reaffirmed its engagement with women’s and youth organizations, working closely with Moroccan authorities.

In this context, the partnership with the Interministerial Delegation for Human Rights (DIDH) focuses on monitoring and applying international recommendations, turning commitments into concrete actions on the ground. “For us, the partnership with the DIDH is a strategic partnership,” Barragues added, illustrating the UNFPA’s desire to maintain a lasting dynamic alongside Morocco to promote and effectively implement human rights.