Quick Facts

• Project Duration: March 2015 - January 2019
• Budget: $17.3 million

Context

Morocco’s 2011 constitution brought about historic prerogatives for civil society engagement in policy-making and new roles in monitoring the implementation of democratic reforms. However, although numerous, the majority of Moroccan Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have limited capacity to influence public policy.

USAID Response

USAID’s Civil Society Strengthening Program (CSSP) aims to take advantage of new constitutional prerogatives for including citizens in the public policy process. Acting as a platform to facilitate dialogue and exchange, CSSP encourages greater collaboration between CSOs and different governmental and institutional actors. The program supports Moroccan CSOs in their policy advocacy efforts, accompanied by technical assistance in developing their constituent networks, forming effective coalitions, and developing sound policy recommendations. CSSP is also providing technical support to members of the government to improve the legal and regulatory framework governing civil society. By increasing the capacity of civil society to engage with the government and facilitating the development of institutionalized mechanisms for civic participation in government decision-making, Morocco will be better situated to implement its reform agenda in a peaceful and sustainable manner.

Anticipated Results

• Civil society organizations’ abilities to participate in the governance process improved;
• Government institutions help facilitate civil society participation in shaping public policy;
• Select Moroccan organizations become centers of expertise on capacity building and advocacy for local CSOs through technical assistance;
• Regional civil society organization coalitions and networks established;
• Participation of women and other marginalized groups in local governance increased;
• Multi-sector relationships around advocacy issues established.