Protecting the enabling environment for civil society organizations in Morocco

In a context of rapid transformations at the geostrategic, ecological, and digital levels, CSOs are called upon to intensify their efforts to effectively position themselves in favor of human rights and sustainable development. One of the main levers of action for Moroccan CSOs is influencing public policies through the mobilization of associative and societal alliances. However, this role is now facing a growing restriction of civic space. This is reflected in legal provisions that are not aligned with the spirit of the 2011 Constitution, the non-compliance of certain public authorities with the law, arbitrary bans on activities, and the absence of a permanent, predictable, and transparent public funding framework.

 

Since the reforms of 2002 and 2005, and more recently the Rabat Appeal in 2013, the Moroccan associative movement has become aware of the need for a renewed roadmap for an updated framework for associative action.

This project is led by Espace Associatif, which ensures its autonomous leadership. However, it remains open to the dynamics of the platforms of which Espace Associatif is a member, including Mirla and Rabat.

 

At the institutional level, Morocco is preparing to hold legislative elections in September. The momentum surrounding this event, and the debates it generates on the programmatic priorities of political parties, represents opportunities for advocacy and political engagement that civil society should seize and monitor.

 

The objective is to achieve an advanced legislative reform that guarantees a favorable, protective, and enabling environment for civic action in Morocco. To this end, Espace Associatif will develop a national evidence-based advocacy strategy targeting political actors before and after the September 2026 legislative elections, in order to integrate civil society demands into party programs and ensure the monitoring of the commitments made.