Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Omar Zniber, called for strengthening the protection of the family and enhancing its role within the United Nations system during a diplomatic workshop held under the theme “A New Compact for Revitalizing, Protecting and Promoting the Family in Policy, Law and Practice.”
Speaking before diplomats, experts and representatives of civil society organizations, Omar Zniber stressed that resolutions adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council recognize the family as the natural and fundamental unit of society, emphasizing the need for increased protection and support from states and international institutions.
The Moroccan diplomat highlighted the important contribution of families to sustainable development, social cohesion and community stability, noting that their role in building resilient and inclusive societies deserves greater recognition at the international level.
Zniber also underlined Morocco’s position that family-related issues should be addressed within the Human Rights Council through a balanced and consensus-based approach, away from ideological divisions and polarization.
He stated that protecting the family is fully compatible with the promotion of human rights, emphasizing that safeguarding the rights of all family members, including women and girls, contributes to stronger and more resilient family structures.
The ambassador further described the family as a key pillar of social solidarity, particularly during periods of economic hardship, migration, health crises and conflicts. He noted that families play an essential role in supporting vulnerable individuals and helping reduce social exclusion and poverty.
In addition, Zniber highlighted the educational role of the family in promoting human rights values, respect for diversity and tolerance, while contributing to the prevention of racism, xenophobia and extremist ideologies.
He also called on the Human Rights Council to encourage international cooperation and the exchange of best practices in areas such as social protection, child protection, combating violence against women and women’s economic empowerment.
Referring to Morocco’s experience, Zniber noted that the family occupies a central place within the Kingdom’s constitutional framework. He pointed to several reforms aimed at strengthening family resilience, including the expansion of social protection programs, compulsory health coverage, family allowances and direct support mechanisms for vulnerable households.
Concluding his remarks, the Moroccan ambassador stressed the importance of intergenerational solidarity, emphasizing the shared responsibility of generations in providing care, transmitting values, ensuring protection and preparing future generations for the challenges ahead.