Geneva: Morocco has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to enhance the legal protection of its cultural heritage. The signing occurred during Morocco’s participation in the WIPO General Assemblies held in Geneva from July 8 to 17.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the agreement seeks to bolster bilateral cooperation in intellectual property with a focus on copyright and related rights. It emphasizes the legal protection of Morocco’s cultural heritage and aims to leverage WIPO’s expertise to adopt new legal concepts like resale and reproduction rights through the WIPOCONNECT system.

A prominent aspect of the agreement is the international promotion of the “Label Maroc,” which aims to reinforce the legal safeguarding of Morocco’s cultural heritage via the Moroccan Office of Intellectual Property. Morocco has already registered several heritage elements, such as the caftan and zellige, which will receive strengthened legal protection through WIPO’s mechanisms.

While UNESCO provides international recognition of cultural heritage, WIPO offers legal recognition that allows states to pursue claims in cases of theft or misappropriation. This agreement will enable Morocco to obtain WIPO’s support to combat the looting of its cultural assets.

In a statement to MAP following the ceremony, Bensaid highlighted the agreement’s aim to enhance the capacities of the Moroccan Copyright Office (BMDA) in strategic areas. He emphasized the development of emerging rights within the BMDA, utilizing international expertise to create new opportunities for artists and the cultural sector.

The agreement also provides a chance to deepen the understanding of the cultural economy and renew skills amidst the sector’s rapid transformation. Bensaid noted the necessity of staying informed about global trends and innovative practices, aligning with Morocco’s vision to preserve and enhance its cultural heritage.

Bensaid further mentioned that Morocco is seeking WIPO recognition for seven elements of its heritage to expand and consolidate legal protection through collaboration with the Geneva-based organization. He stated that Morocco is the first country to protect its intangible heritage from a cultural perspective, marking the beginning of its initiatives with WIPO.

During bilateral talks on the sidelines of the signing ceremony, the Moroccan official and WIPO Director General discussed the level of cooperation between Morocco and WIPO and key joint projects. These include expert exchanges and capacity-building visits to secure the rights of authors and creators.