In the Maghreb, culture constitutes an immense richness and its safeguarding within the context of globalization constitutes a real challenge. Culture is also an important resource, and can contribute to the economic and social development in the region. The UNESCO Office in Rabat supports Maghreb countries to develop the culture sector in the countries concerned. The Office will concentrate its action on cultural heritage in its broadest sense, the protection of cultural diversity and the promotion of pluralism and the dialogue between cultures and religions. It also aims at reinforcing the networks of professionals and the mobilization of extra budgetary resources.
The Maghreb countries are characterized by a rich and diverse cultural heritage. The reinforcement of the normative framework and practical steps to protect this heritage constitute a strategic priority for the UNESCO Office in Rabat.
Intercultural dialogue and cultural diversity
In view of the sociocultural transformations in the Maghreb, it is essential to reinforce the intercultural dialogue and to promote the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.
Cultural industries and the craft industry
Following successful initiatives in the book industry the UNESCO Office in Rabat aims to assist the crafts industry in the Maghreb and to reinforce the local capacities as well as the partnerships in the Maghreb region.
The UNESCO Office in Rabat aims at promoting cultural tourism in the Maghreb in order to contribute to the development of the relation between tourism, cultural heritage and sustainable development.