09/05/2007
The Moroccan Association of Human Rights has elected Khadija Ryadi as its first woman president, AFP quoted the NGO as saying on Tuesday (May 8th). Established in 1979, the organisation is considered one of Morocco's leading rights groups. Ryadi is a former trade unionist. Outlining her priorities for her presidency, she said "We will focus on economic and social rights, educate people about human rights as well as the role of youth in promoting these rights." In April 2006, another leading Moroccan rights watchdog, the Moroccan Organisation of Human Rights also selected a woman president, Amina Bouayach. Her election showed Moroccan society's recognition that "a woman can play a leading role in spheres which were traditionally male bastions," said Bouayach.