Copyrights Law in Morocco
Here’s a detailed overview of Copyright Law in Morocco:
📚 Legal Framework
1. Primary Legislation
Morocco’s copyright is mainly governed by:
Law No. 2-00 on Copyright and Related Rights, enacted on February 12, 2000.
This law is sometimes referred to as the Moroccan Copyright Law (Droits d’Auteur et Droits Voisins).
The law has been updated periodically to align with international standards.
2. International Treaties Morocco is Party To
Morocco is a member of several key treaties, including:
Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works
WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT)
Rome Convention for performers and producers
TRIPS Agreement under the World Trade Organization (WTO)
Marrakesh Treaty (accessibility for visually impaired persons)
🖋️ Scope of Protection
Protected works include:
Literary works (books, articles, scripts)
Musical compositions and lyrics
Artistic works (paintings, sculptures, photographs)
Cinematographic and audiovisual works
Software and databases
Architectural works
Protection applies to both published and unpublished works, provided they are original and fixed in a tangible form.
⏳ Duration of Protection
Author’s lifetime + 50 years after death.
For posthumous works: 50 years from the date of publication.
For audiovisual works: 50 years from creation or first publication.
Related rights (performers, producers, broadcasters): generally 50 years from performance or publication.
✅ Conditions for Protection
Protection is automatic on creation; no formal registration or deposit is required.
The work must be original and fixed in some material form.
📥 Rights Granted
Moral Rights (inalienable and perpetual)
Right to claim authorship
Right to respect for the integrity of the work
Right to decide on disclosure or publication
Economic Rights (transferable/licensable)
Reproduction rights
Distribution rights
Public performance and communication rights
Right to adapt, translate, or modify the work
⚖️ Exceptions & Limitations
Moroccan law recognizes exceptions similar to many jurisdictions, including:
Private and personal use copying
Use for educational and research purposes
Quotation and citation
Use by libraries and archives
Parody and satire under certain conditions
🛡️ Enforcement & Remedies
Infringement can lead to:
Civil lawsuits for damages and injunctions
Criminal penalties: fines and imprisonment for serious violations
Customs authorities have the power to seize counterfeit or pirated goods
Courts have jurisdiction over copyright disputes
📌 Additional Notes
Morocco is actively involved in copyright reform to keep pace with digital and internet-related challenges.
Collective management organizations (e.g., BMDA - Bureau Marocain du Droit d’Auteur) administer rights and royalties.
The law also addresses the protection of technological measures and rights management information.
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