Morocco’s hierarchical political culture has not traditionally encouraged members of parliament (MPs) to engage with citizens about their priorities. Nor do citizens have much experience or confidence in raising concerns with their elected officials. This constituent gap has undermined the development of more representative and responsive government in Morocco.

For many young people today, being civic minded and interested in addressing social problems doesn’t translate into traditional political engagement. In the U.S., the “best and brightest” are often drawn more to Silicon Valley than Washington, DC, seeking to solve social problems by means other than government—through volunteerism, the private sector or social enterprises. In the Middle East and North Africa, many young people find too few opportunities to engage the formal political system and, in many places, see closing civic space.

Without a special traffic light that emits an audible signal, people who are blind or have low vision may risk their lives by the simple act of crossing streets. Such audible signals are expensive, particularly in Moldova, which is Europe’s poorest country. A civic group in Soroca, a city in northern Moldova, didn’t let this stop them. Thanks to their successful advocacy, the quality of life for Soroca’s large community of  blind citizens is improving and inspiring further community involvement.

Identifying the Issues