Morocco

Overview

In recent decades, Morocco has embarked on reform initiatives to increase government accountability, transparency, and citizen participation. Constitutional changes have expanded parliament’s influence and made commitments to gender parity in government, while a decentralization initiative aims to empower local governments. Civic engagement remains constrained in Morocco, however, with significant segments of the population, especially young people, disenchanted with government inaction on key issues and notably absent from the political sphere. Since 1997, NDI has worked with Moroccan partners to strengthen institutions and democratic practices by improving the responsiveness of political parties and members of parliament, enhancing electoral processes, and increasing citizen representation in public life. NDI has supported Moroccan civil society to advocate for citizens’ concerns, monitor the implementation of open government reforms, and collaborate directly with decision-makers on projects that respond to local needs and encourage economic prosperity. Across its efforts, NDI contributes to widening political representation by preparing women to successfully run for local and national office, assisting political parties in establishing dedicated youth wings, and equipping civil society groups to advocate for electoral reforms.