Cancer: Morocco Offers Free Treatment for Children under Five

Moroccan children under five diagnosed with cancer will receive free medical treatment in all public hospitals and health centers of the North African country.

The decision was announced last week by the Health ministry in a press release, explaining that the move will benefit the children with no health coverage under the compulsory health insurance plan.

Several patients have joined forces and launched lately a social media campaign demanding free medical care, especially for those suffering from long-term illness such as cancer.

The decision of the health ministry, which is in line with the royal guidance, reflects the country’s commitment to international conventions related to human rights and especially the rights of children to healthcare.

Morocco is among the signatories of the UN convention on the Rights of the child. The Convention empowers all children with inalienable, indivisible rights regardless of their background or circumstances. It lays the responsibility to realize children’s rights on duty bearers, including families and caregivers who must protect children, enable them to grow, learn, play, develop and flourish with dignity.