Morocco’s Minister Defends New Cultural Heritage Protection Bill
National Necessity Beyond Political Rivalry
Morocco’s Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, has strongly defended Draft Law No. 33.22 on cultural heritage protection. During a House of Councillors committee session, Bensaid emphasized this legislation represents a national necessity rather than political contention between majority and opposition parties.
The minister revealed this legal framework has been in development since 2002, with delays caused by extensive stakeholder consultations across multiple government sectors.
Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage
The proposed law introduces groundbreaking measures for intangible cultural heritage protection, specifically addressing recent international claims on Moroccan cultural symbols like zellij tilework and caftans. Bensaid clarified that while UNESCO and ICESCO provide recognition, actual protection remains Morocco’s responsibility.
Preserving Living Treasures
A key focus is protecting master artisans and cultural bearers – termed “living treasures” – whose expertise risks being lost through retirement or death. The legislation aims to preserve these skills for future generations, acknowledging intangible heritage as dynamic cultural capital requiring active defense against distortion or appropriation.
Innovative Underwater Heritage Protection
The bill establishes Morocco’s first national center for underwater cultural heritage, leveraging the country’s extensive coastline. A partnership with the Royal Gendarmerie will facilitate artifact recovery, with cities like Salé identified for maritime heritage tourism development.
Combating Art Piracy
For the first time, Morocco will formally classify certain artworks as national heritage, enabling stronger action against art piracy. This responds to growing concerns in the country’s developing art market.
Stricter Enforcement Measures
The legislation introduces tougher penalties for heritage violations, addressing past issues where contractors preferred paying fines over compliance. New requirements include:
- Heritage management plans
- Impact studies for construction near cultural sites
Bensaid emphasized this approach balances investment with preservation, following models from Turkey, Greece, and Italy.
Legislative Progress
Approved by the House of Representatives in February 2025 after initial adoption by the Government Council in November 2024, this framework marks a significant advancement in preserving Morocco’s cultural identity alongside modern development.
Source: Hespress English