Objectives:
The objective of this law is to preserve historical monuments, works of art, and antiquities.
Restitution Measures:
According to Article 10, all archaeological discoveries become the property of the State, prohibiting any private appropriation and guaranteeing their preservation for the national community. Article 15 prohibits the unauthorized export of archaeological materials, ensuring that transfers take place only within national heritage institutions. Article 12 mandates the preservation of archaeological materials in national institutions such as the Archaeological Museum of Rabat, establishing standardized procedures for the transfer and preservation of finds. These interconnected articles ensure centralized management of archaeological discoveries, thereby strengthening the country’s institutional capacity to preserve and study its post-independence archaeological heritage and marking a turning point in Moroccan cultural policy.
Limitations:
Morocco is still reliant on a combination of national and international laws for repatriation procedures and protocols. However, the establishment of the Moroccan State as owner of all cultural heritage found in/on Moroccan soil strengthens its case in these spheres.
