Moroccan state TV shows women how to conceal domestic violence bruises with make-up

Moroccan state television has been widely criticised for broadcasting a programme which showed women how to conceal bruises caused by domestic violence with make-up.

The segment of the morning Sabahiyat programme on Channel 2M showed smiling makeup artist Lilia Mouline showing how to conceal injuries with on a model, who had artificial bruises.

"We hope these beauty tips will help you carry on with your daily life," the host said at the end of the segment, which was broadcast to promote International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November.

"Make sure to use loose powder to fix the makeup, so if you have to work throughout the day, the bruises don't show," the host said, before recommending the best beauty brands for heavy coverage foundations and concealers.

The segment provoked outrage, with thousands signing an online petition demanding Morocco's High Authority of Audiovisual Communication (HACA) take action against 2M.

"Do not cover domestic violence with makeup, condemn the aggressor!" the petition read.

"No woman should ever have to live through domestic violence, let alone consider covering up its traces. Shame on you 2M," one petition supporter said.

2M has issued an apology online and on-air for broadcasting the segment, which they called an "editorial error of judgement".

The station said the choice was a "complete contradiction" to their commitment to women's rights and they will "take the necessary steps to strengthen control and supervision".

Mouline told local media that she was merely providing practical advice for victims and in no way condoned domestic violence.

"We are here to provide solutions to these women who, for a period of two to three weeks, are putting their social life aside while their wounds heal. These women have already been subjected to moral humiliation and do not need to also have others looking at them," Mouline told Yabiladi, a news website.

"Makeup allows women to continue to live normally while waiting for justice."

In February, Human Rights Watch criticised Morocco for its "tepid" response to domestic violence.