Morocco Leads Arab World in Democracy Index Progress
Morocco has climbed the ranks of the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Democracy Index 2024, securing its position as the leading Arab nation in democratic progress. Achieving a global ranking of 91, the country demonstrates positive strides in its democratic development. This improvement reflects ongoing efforts towards greater political participation, civil liberties, and governmental transparency.
While the EIU’s Democracy Index provides a valuable snapshot of global democratic trends, it’s important to understand the nuances behind the rankings. The index uses a comprehensive scoring system across five key categories: electoral process and pluralism, functioning of government, political participation, political culture, and civil liberties. Each country receives a score out of 10, categorized into one of four regime types: full democracies, flawed democracies, hybrid regimes, and authoritarian regimes. Morocco’s improved ranking suggests movement towards a more robust and participatory political landscape. You can explore the full dataset and methodology on the EIU’s website [link to EIU Democracy Index website].
This progress comes at a time of significant political and social change in the region. North Africa and the Middle East have witnessed varying levels of democratic development, with some countries experiencing setbacks while others, like Morocco, are making demonstrable gains. According to Freedom House’s 2025 “Freedom in the World” report [link to Freedom House report], the region continues to face challenges related to freedom of expression and assembly. However, Morocco’s advancements highlight the potential for positive change within this complex context.
Several factors may contribute to Morocco’s improved democratic standing. Constitutional reforms, increased engagement with civil society organizations, and efforts to promote judicial independence are likely playing a role. For example, the 2011 constitutional reforms [link to information on Moroccan constitutional reforms] introduced significant changes, including strengthening the role of parliament and enhancing the protection of human rights. Furthermore, the country’s relatively stable political environment compared to some of its neighbors has allowed for more consistent focus on democratic development.
However, challenges remain. Ensuring equitable access to political participation for all citizens, strengthening the rule of law, and fostering a vibrant and independent media landscape are crucial for continued progress. Organizations like the Moroccan Association for Human Rights [link to Moroccan human rights organization website] continue to advocate for greater freedoms and accountability.
Looking ahead, Morocco’s continued commitment to democratic principles will be essential for its long-term stability and prosperity. By embracing inclusive governance, protecting fundamental rights, and fostering open dialogue, the country can further solidify its position as a leader of democratic progress in the Arab world. The international community can play a supportive role by encouraging these positive developments and offering assistance in areas where challenges persist. The journey towards a fully realized democracy is ongoing, but Morocco’s recent progress offers a hopeful sign for the future.
