Morocco’s Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and Family, Aawatif Hayar, announced on Saturday a new initiative to address the growing issue of psychological trauma among children.
During a multisectoral forum in Fez entitled “For a Common Vision to Prevent Violence Among Youth,” Minister Hayar introduced the project, which was developed in collaboration with the National Observatory for Children’s Rights.
The initiative prioritizes providing targeted psychological support to children affected by trauma and establishing a stronger foundation for mental health care services.
A key component of the project is the upcoming establishment of a National Agency for Child Protection.
According to Hayar, the agency will coordinate efforts across multiple sectors involved in child protection, improving the efficiency of the current system, and promoting a more integrated and coherent approach on a national scale.
“The government remains committed to ensuring the well-being and healthy development of all children in Morocco,” Hayar stated. “Child protection is a national priority that requires collective mobilization and coordinated action from all sectors of society.”
Minister Hayar explained that the new initiative is in line with the broader child protection strategy spearheaded by the Moroccan government, under the guidance of King Mohammed VI.
Recent advancements, including a strengthened legal framework, have helped Morocco make substantial progress in child welfare.
“This new strategy, part of Morocco’s ongoing development model, aims to strengthen the resilience of families and create a safe, nurturing environment for children,” Hayar said. The approach involves a broad coalition of stakeholders, from families and schools to local institutions and media outlets.
The project also includes a focus on local-level action through the establishment of regional child protection commissions, which will be led by local government officials. The commissions are designed to coordinate child protection efforts at the local level, ensuring that resources are deployed where they are most needed.
Support centers and protection units will offer a broad range of services such as psychological counseling, social assistance, and guidance for children and their families. According to the minister, the network will allow for quick, tailored interventions for children in vulnerable situations.
In addition to addressing existing trauma, the initiative strongly supports prevention. “We need to act proactively to prevent violence before it occurs and intervene quickly for children at risk,” Hayar asserted. Efforts will include raising public awareness about violence against children and providing resources to strengthen parenting skills.