While the world is witnessing a worrying rise in hatred and intolerance, exacerbated by conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, “genocidal risks” in Gaza, Congo, Sudan but also in China (list non-exhaustive), as well as by the rise of the far right in the four corners of the globe, Morocco reaffirms its commitment to the values of coexistence. This commitment was highlighted by Omar Hilale, Ambassador Permanent Representative of Morocco to the UN, during a high-level event held on June 19, 2024 in New York.
The event, co-organized by the Permanent Mission of Morocco to the United Nations and the UN Office for Genocide Prevention, marked the celebration of the 3rd international day against hate speech. Proclaimed by the UN in July 2021 at the initiative of the Kingdom, this day is celebrated every June 18.
Under the aegis of King Mohammed VI, Morocco adopted policies focused on young people, aimed at guaranteeing equal opportunities, quality education, and intellectual and professional empowerment. Each of these measures aims to protect young people from risky behavior and transform them into vectors of social change. “The involvement of Moroccan youth in the fight against hate speech and extremism has proven very useful», declared Mr. Hilale, recalling the effectiveness of the Moroccan integrated national strategy for youth (2015-2030).
Morocco also highlights the essential role of civil society and youth associations. Since July 2011, the Advisory Council for Youth and Associative Action has coordinated the action of some 50,000 associations across the country, working in various fields: education, social inclusion, health, and defense. human rights.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres insisted that young people (16% of the world’s population), often those most affected by online hatred, must be included in solutions.
The President of the UN General Assembly, Dennis Francis, recalled the importance of the values of harmony and respect for dynamic and healthy societies.
