The Morrocan Forum for Truth and Justice (MFTJ) holds a demonstration for the families of the disappeared in Casablanca.

Middle East and North Africa

Throughout 2008, governments of the Middle East and North Africa have been aggressive and methodical in their attempts to silence persistent public demands for more political space, participation, transparency, and accountability. New laws and regulations have been passed that limit independent media and tightly control NGOs.

In Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and Yemen, security forces were frequently deployed to quell public protests, including those triggered by public resentment at rising food and fuel prices. Still, public criticism of government officials and policies increased as most political activists, journalists, and community leaders were not deterred by harassment and remained persistent in their demands.

Political and civic groups filled what political space they found and pushed for more. Regional and international networks extended their reach and supported advocacy efforts and regional cooperation among political reformers. With successful elections held throughout the region, Islamist groups pursued peaceful political participation.

Many political structures in MENA countries – including elections, parliaments, judiciaries, local governments, and political parties – demonstrated serious shortcomings and are in desperate need of reform and consolidation. NED increased its support to civic groups to enhance nascent political processes at the local and national levels, and help engage parliamentary committees and members of parliament with concerned civic groups.

NED also increased support to its core institutes to provide members of parliaments and political parties with training and technical assistance, including party development, policy formation, and constituent outreach.

NED supported projects in many critical sectors, such as:

• advancing civic participation,
• advocating public accountability, and;
• consolidating the role and functions of parliamentarians.

In particular, NED expanded its program to create more active roles for youth and women groups in public institutions, public oversight, policy development, and political processes. Despite progress in the area of women’s rights, significant social and political barriers continue to impede women’s full engagement as leaders or candidates for public office. As for youth, they are the most rapidly growing sector in the MENA region, but have been increasingly disengaged from the political process. :: MORE