• Honourable Mr Muhammad Reza UTEEM, Minister of Labour and Industrial Relations;

   

• Honourable Mr Kuvalayan Kugan PARAPEN, Junior Minister of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity

• Honourable Ms. Anishta BABOORAM, Junior Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare

• Mr. Premnathsingh JOKHOO, Commissioner of Mauritius Prisons;

• Mr. Samioullah LAUTHAN, Senior Advisor at Prime Minister’s Office;

• Mrs. Pauline BONIEUX, President of Association Kinouété and her team;

•  Distinguished guests;

•  Ladies and Gentlemen.

INTRODUCTION

It is a great honour to join you today on this important occasion - the official presentation of research findings on the challenges faced by 
ex-inmates, especially women and youth, in reintegrating into Mauritian society. This event marks a meaningful step forward in our shared efforts to promote social inclusion, human dignity, and justice.

The European Union firmly upholds respect for human rights and the empowerment of vulnerable populations as essential foundations for building resilient and peaceful societies. These principles guide our work globally and are deeply embedded in our values and policies.

EU SUPPORT TO ASSOCIATION KINOUETE

Ladies and gentlemen,

Our support to Association KINOUETE through the “Graduated Reintegration: Empowering Women, Girls, and Young People through Reinforced Transition from Prison to Community Programme” exemplifies our commitment in practice.

This initiative, which we are proud to support, addresses social exclusion and aims to break the cycle of recidivism and marginalization 

through research, capacity building, digital monitoring, peer support, and counselling. In joining forces with Association KINOUETE, our objective is to facilitate the transition from prison to community life, in line with the EU’s vision for social justice and inclusion.

EU SUPPORT TO CIVIL SOCIETY IN GENERAL

Ladies and gentlemen,

I wish to highlight that our collaboration with KINOUETE aligns with our long-standing partnership with Mauritian civil society, which has spanned over four decades, and supports our priorities in international cooperation. This joint effort also fits within the framework of the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy (2020–2024), which encourages prison reform and inclusion of vulnerable groups in partner countries, contributing to a fairer and more resilient society.

I am pleased that Association KINOUETE is also implementing this reintegration project to Rodrigues, hence reflecting our shared determination to ensure no community is left behind.

The European Union is also concretely supporting civil society organisations that play a vital role in fostering inclusive dialogue, protecting vulnerable communities, promoting human rights and advancing sustainable development. 

Through funding, capacity building, and long-term partnerships, the EU stands with Civil Society in building a more resilient, equitable, and participatory society

I therefore seize this opportunity to share with you some good news: The European Union plans to launch a new Call for Proposals for Civil Society organisations before the end of this year. This upcoming initiative aims to further strengthen the capacities of local actors working in different areas including human rights. I encourage all eligible organisations to consider participating, as the European Union remains a dedicated partner in supporting transformative projects across Mauritius and Rodrigues.

CONCLUSION

Ladies and gentlemen,

I am confident that the findings of this study will help inform better public policies and promote a more inclusive society by reducing stigma and recidivism.

I would like to sincerely thank the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations, the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity and the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare as well as the Mauritius Prisons Service for their presence here today. Their participation clearly demonstrates their strong support for this vital project.

I also commend Association KINOUETE and all partners for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in favour of the reintegration of ex inmates (particularly women and young people) in society. 

The European Union stands firmly alongside you in advancing a just, inclusive, and humane society for all.

Thank you for your attention.