Fostering Dialogue on Elderly Rights in Fes-Meknes
In a significant effort to enhance public discourse surrounding the issues faced by the aging population, the Fes-Meknes region hosted its third regional meeting on May 6, 2026. This event, held in the grand meeting hall of the region, was focused on the theme: "The Rights of Elderly Persons: Between Protection Challenges and Capacity Enhancement Stakes." This gathering is part of a series initiated by the State Secretariat for Social Integration, in collaboration with the Fes-Meknes Council, and with support from the United Nations Population Fund.
The program featured an inaugural session led by Abdellah Rachidi, Secretary of State for Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family, responsible for social integration, alongside Abdelwahid Ansari, President of the Fes-Meknes region. In his address, Ansari emphasized the imperative of placing elderly individuals at the heart of development policies. He reiterated the need to recognize the contributions of this demographic to Moroccan society and to ensure their dignified inclusion in the ongoing transformations occurring within the kingdom. Additionally, he called for the enhancement of health coverage mechanisms and social support programs aimed at improving the income of elderly citizens.
Following the opening session, a comprehensive interactive discussion took place, addressing various topics including a review of the current status of the elderly based on recent statistical data, updates on health and social protection measures, and strategies for integrating this demographic into public policies while boosting their participation in economic and social life.
The primary objective of this meeting was to shed light on the conditions of the elderly at the regional level, to examine the various challenges associated with social and health protection, and to highlight the importance of valuing their experiences and capabilities as essential drivers of community development.
The meeting also served as a platform for sharing successful experiences and initiatives in elderly care, featuring live testimonials from active associations in the field, as well as practical proposals aimed at improving the quality of services provided to this demographic and enhancing coordination mechanisms among various stakeholders.
Concluding the meeting, a memorandum of understanding was signed to reinforce coordination and collaboration among different partners, which will contribute to the development of programs and initiatives aimed at benefiting the elderly at the regional level. The discussions wrapped up with a series of recommendations aimed at advancing public policies related to elderly individuals, ensuring their dignity and rights, and facilitating their effective integration into society.
As reported by alhadattv.ma.
