Background 

Programme objectives 

Following the adoption of the 2011 constitution, Morocco launched a series of reforms aimed at promoting greater transparency and accountability in public policies, while strengthening citizen participation in public policies and programs. Despite the impetus given by these initiatives and the continued expression of the government's political will, corruption rates in Morocco have not decreased, but stagnated. The failure to integrate civil society, particularly in the regions, through participatory governance of anti-corruption policies has meant that civil society, and citizens in general, are rarely able to effectively support public authorities in this critical area. This programme exploits the entry point for dialogue between CSOs, public authorities and Parliament.

Funded by the EU, this programme aims to to empower CSOs for advocacy, monitoring and evaluation of transparency and governance in the framework of public policies that are designed for this purpose and promote the efforts of the House in this area

Consortium partners: European Partnership for Democracy (EFP, lead); Impact for Development (IFD).

The 2011 Constitution has considerably increased opportunities for citizens to participate in public life but Opportunities for citizens to exercise their new constitutional rights through engagement with parliament remains limited. CSOs are working on citizens’ concerns, issues and requests on a daily basis. This puts them in a good position to facilitate dialogue between parliament and citizens. However, many of these CSOs lack the effective means and knowledge on how to engage in parliamentary processes. The Parliament of Morocco has expressed its interest in engaging CSOs in its work and effectively implementing its rules of procedures related to engagement with CSOs.

Supported by the Shiraka Fund under the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the project's main objective is to increase inclusion and public participation in policy making process in Morocco through enhanced CSOs and Parliament’s links and increased capabilities to work together on advancing key policy issues. 

Women’s political voices are under-represented in the parliament and even once elected, parliamentary practices are structured to prevent women MPs from gaining influence. This overshadows the extensive, detailed work being undertaken by committees and working groups - often informed by civil society voices - where women are given greater opportunities and are more active. As such, the value that women MPs bring is not fully recognised. The Thematic Working Group on Parity and Equity, established in 2011 to undertake studies and evaluate laws and policies from a gender perspective, offers a platform for women MPs to make significant contributions. However, as an ad-hoc committee, it has no oversight or legislative function, limiting its role and impact.

This project is funded by Global Affairs Canada under the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives managed by the Canadian Embassy in Rabat. The programme aims to advance women's political participation and leadership in Morocco through work with the Parliament of Morocco.