Morocco: up to ten years in prison for damage to cultural heritage

Morocco is taking radical measures to protect its cultural heritage. A new bill provides for tough penalties for those who damage historic treasures. Ten years in prison and a fine of 200,000 dirhams is the high price to pay for offenders.

This bill, approved by the government, gives a real legal arsenal to citizens and associations. Any citizen can now alert the authorities about violations observed. Heritage protection associations can even become a civil party in the event of a lawsuit.