Morocco Proposes Strict Law to Protect Cultural Heritage with Hefty Fines and Prison Terms

This draft law, approved by the government, gives citizens and associations a real legal arsenal. Any citizen can now alert the authorities to observed infractions. Cultural heritage protection associations can even join civil proceedings in case of trial.

To enforce the law, judicial police officers are on the front line. They are responsible for noting infractions and drawing up reports. Water and forest agents, customs and urban planning agents are also authorized to intervene, each in their area of competence.

The theft of classified cultural property is punishable by 5 years in prison and a fine of 200,000 dirhams. If the crime is committed by an organized gang, the sentence can go up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 500,000 dirhams. Destroying or damaging a historic monument can cost up to 3 years in prison and a fine of 150,000 dirhams.

But the text is not limited to repression. It also provides for the creation of a national heritage register and the development of a management plan to preserve these riches for future generations. Morocco intends to bring itself into line with its international commitments in terms of heritage protection.