Patrimonialization and the geopark label: For which development model in the south? The case of morocco

In Morocco, the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG) label covers only one geopark in the Central High Atlas: the M Goun geopark. The process of patrimonialization as an approach to preserving territorial resources, and the debates around the specification mobilized in the development of local territories constantly have more importance in society. The notion of patrimonialization tends to be increasingly linked to territorial development policies, particularly in the marginal areas of poor countries. The UGG label is beginning to take over in Morocco s territorial system for the preservation of both tangible and intangible heritage. Heritage enhancement through specification, labeling and enhancement is increasingly perceived as an unexpected windfall by the various stakeholders. The UGG label is fully in line with this approach, but the adoption of this UNESCO approach to development faces various unresolved challenges of transfer, adaptation, acceptance, appropriation and territorial management.