Rabat Declaration: A Collective Commitment to Empower Blind and Visually Impaired Women

A New Reference for Inclusive Development

The 2nd National Forum of Blind and Visually Impaired Women concluded in Rabat on Sunday, April 12, 2026, with the historic adoption of the “Rabat Declaration.” This document serves as a strategic roadmap and a “reference document” for the rights, dignity, and socio-economic empowerment of visually impaired women across Morocco.

The forum was held under the honorary presidency of HH Princess Lalla Lamia Essolh, President of the Alaouite Organization for the Promotion of the Blind in Morocco (OAPAM).

Addressing Multidimensional Challenges

The Declaration acknowledges the significant efforts made by stakeholders while highlighting the systemic barriers that still hinder the full participation of blind and visually impaired women in society. Key challenges identified include:

• Digital Inclusion: Access to assistive technologies and accessible digital platforms.
• Economic Integration: Overcoming hurdles in the labor market and fostering entrepreneurship.
• Education & Training: Ensuring equitable access to specialized and inclusive learning environments.
• Health & Social Services: Guaranteeing universal access to care without discrimination.
• Public Life & Leadership: Strengthening the presence of visually impaired women in decision-making roles.

Strategic Framework and Approach

The Rabat Declaration reinforces the status of visually impaired women as full citizens and calls for a paradigm shift in public policy through:

1. Human Rights-Based Approach: Moving away from a “charity” model toward one based on inherent rights and freedoms.
2. Gender-Based Integration: Recognizing the intersectional challenges faced by women with disabilities.
3. Universal Accessibility: Ensuring that physical environments, transport, and technologies are designed for all.

Core Recommendations

The document outlines a series of actionable recommendations for the government, private sector, and civil society:

• Policy Monitoring: The adoption of clear indicators to measure the impact of inclusion programs.
• Strengthened Partnerships: Deepening cooperation between OAPAM, government departments, and national institutions.
• Empowerment Programs: Initiatives specifically designed to foster the autonomy and dignity of the beneficiaries.
• Advocacy: An open call to all stakeholders to engage in the sustainable empowerment of this social group.

Forum Highlights

The three-day event (April 10–12) brought together approximately 60 beneficiaries from various regions of Morocco. The program featured:

• Scientific Sessions: Expert-led discussions on national and international legal frameworks.
• Practical Workshops: Hands-on training in digital tools and vocational skills.
• Personal Testimonies: Real-life accounts from visually impaired women that helped shape the final text of the Declaration.

The adoption of the Rabat Declaration marks a significant milestone in Morocco’s journey toward a more equitable and inclusive future, ensuring that no citizen is left behind due to visual impairment.