Morocco Advances Digital Era with New Copyright and Journalism Legislation

On July 13, Morocco’s Chamber of Advisors adopted two pivotal draft laws designed to modernize the nation’s legal landscape in response to digital age challenges. These laws, previously approved by the House of Representatives on July 6 with a vote of 85 to 35, focus respectively on copyright and related rights, and the professional status of journalists.

The first draft law, passed by 46 votes in favor and one abstention, aims to overhaul Morocco’s copyright legislation. It strengthens intellectual property protections, combats digital piracy and unauthorized distribution of audiovisual content, and adapts the legal framework to contemporary technological realities.

Secretary of State for Employment Hicham Sabiry, presenting the bill on behalf of Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, emphasized that the reform continues Morocco’s national efforts to safeguard copyright amid ongoing digital transformation. The legislation updates legal concepts to reflect technological advances, expands publishing contracts to encompass digital content, and enhances the authority of the Moroccan Copyright and Related Rights Office (BMDAV).

Additionally, the bill clarifies the legal status of folklore expressions and works in the public domain, while reinforcing judicial and customs mechanisms to effectively combat copyright infringement. Sabiry highlighted that these measures aim to encourage investment in Morocco’s cultural and creative sectors, particularly as the country prepares to host major international sporting events.

The second draft law, approved by 42 votes in favor, four against, and seven abstentions, reforms the status of professional journalists. Its objective is to adapt the profession to the evolving media environment and strengthen its legal framework.

According to Sabiry, the amendments are targeted and limited, preserving the core philosophy of law 13.89, which originally governs the journalism profession. The reform updates specific legal definitions, bolsters continuing professional training, and consolidates protections linked to the professional press card, including enhanced safeguards against its unauthorized use.

Importantly, the legislation enshrines journalists’ moral and material rights by granting them entitlement to copyright and related rights under existing law. This formal recognition affirms journalistic work as intellectual production deserving of legal protection.

Together, these two draft laws form part of Morocco’s broader strategy to modernize its legal framework, support the country’s digital transition, and strengthen the media, cultural, and creative sectors.

Sabiry described the copyright reform as a significant step in the ongoing modernization of Morocco’s intellectual property system. It aims to reinforce legal certainty, stimulate creativity and investment, and uphold the nation’s international commitments in intellectual property.

Through these reforms, the Moroccan government seeks to align its legislation with technological developments and international standards, fostering a more competitive environment for journalists, creators, and rights holders. The measures reflect Morocco’s ambition to effectively respond to the evolving challenges of the digital era while promoting its cultural industries.

These legislative advances mark a critical moment in Morocco’s adaptation to the digital age, positioning the country to better protect intellectual property and support its media professionals in a rapidly changing technological landscape.