Given the importance of promoting cultural rights, enhancing societal openness, enriching and promoting Morocco’s linguistic and cultural diversity, the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) submitted recommendations and observations regarding Draft law No. 56-20 on museums and Draft law No. 55-20 amending and supplementing Law No. 01-09 establishing and supplementing the National Museum Foundation.
The CNDH recommendations and observations aim to reinforce the role of museums in preserving Moroccan collective memory and enhancing governance. This initiative aligns with the recommendations outlined by the Equity and Reconciliation Commission (IER) and seeks to protect both tangible and intangible heritage, at national and local levels. It also emphasizes the fundamental right of citizens to participate equally in cultural life.
Ms. Amina Bouayach, CNDH Chairperson, emphasized that the role of museums is not limited to preserving cultural and natural heritage. They also serve as essential spaces for education, inspiration, dialogue and fostering common ground. By strengthening social cohesion and disseminating common principles and values, museums can significantly enhance the creative capacities of their visitors. Therefore, there is a need for a legislative framework that acknowledges the cultural, civilizational and historical significance of these institutions, guaranteeing their efficacy and ensuring equitable access for all citizens.
Key recommendations include: ensuring equality of access, enhancing museum management, strengthening cultural governance and policy in Morocco, encouraging the establishment of regional and local museums that combine cultural heritage and natural resources, integrating modern memory spaces, etc.
In addition, the CNDH observations and recommendations on the two draft laws also ensures engagement with the digital age to facilitate access to treasures available within these spaces for individuals in remote areas, particularly youth and children.
The CNDH submitted its recommendations and observations to the legislative authority on Tuesday, February 2, 2021, following their approval by the CNDH Bureau on Thursday, January 28, 2021. This submission aims to enhance the two draft laws, ensuring their alignment with the spirit of the Constitution, IER recommendations, and international human rights standards, while drawing inspiration from best experiences worldwide.
