Morocco Invests in Literary Growth with New Publishing Support Program
A new decree issued in Morocco outlines exciting changes to how the government supports its vibrant literary scene. The joint decree, spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication and the Ministry of Economy and Finance, aims to bolster publishers and encourage the creation of new works.
The decree, officially published in the latest edition of the Official Gazette, revises and expands upon existing legislation regarding book publishing support. These changes signal a strong commitment to nurturing Moroccan literature and making it accessible to a wider audience.
One of the key highlights of the decree is the allocation of one million dirhams to support the establishment, modernization, and revitalization of bookstores. This initiative recognizes the crucial role bookstores play in connecting readers with books and fostering a love of literature.
Furthermore, the decree outlines a comprehensive approach to supporting publishers:
Publication Support: Funding will be provided to publishers based on the number of copies printed, ensuring a wider reach for Moroccan authors. To ensure quality and compliance, publishers are required to submit copies bearing the legal deposit number to the government authority responsible for culture.
Accessibility for the Visually Impaired: Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the decree allocates 70% upfront funding and 30% upon completion for projects focused on publishing works in accessible formats for individuals with visual impairments. This commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can experience the joy of reading.
Transparency and Accountability: To ensure transparency and fairness, the decree establishes a committee responsible for evaluating project proposals. Members of this committee will receive a fixed compensation of 15,000 dirhams per session. Additionally, publishers who fail to fulfill their contractual obligations may face a suspension of support for up to two years.
This new decree is part of a larger annual initiative by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication to foster cultural and artistic projects. This initiative, aligned with Decree No. 2.12.513, aims to promote the publication of books and other written works through a call for project proposals.
The initiative encompasses a wide range of areas, including:
Book publishing
Publication of cultural magazines
Launching and updating online cultural magazines
Participation in international book fairs
Publishing for people with visual impairments
Support for bookstores (establishment, modernization, and revitalization)
Supporting Moroccan authors’ participation in writers’ residencies
By investing in these diverse areas, the Moroccan government is creating a fertile ground for literary creativity to flourish. This comprehensive approach not only benefits authors and publishers but also enriches the cultural landscape of Morocco and beyond.
