Morocco Slips in Good Governance Index, Raising Concerns About Government Effectiveness
A new international report has cast a shadow over the performance of Morocco’s government, revealing a concerning decline in the country’s global good governance ranking. The 2024 Good Governance Index placed Morocco at 70th out of 113 countries, marking a significant drop of eight positions. This downward trend raises questions about the effectiveness of Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch’s government and its ability to address key challenges facing the nation.
While the original article doesn’t specify which index is referenced, several reputable good governance indices exist, including the Ibrahim Index of African Governance and the World Bank’s Worldwide Governance Indicators. These indices typically assess various aspects of governance, such as:
Government Effectiveness: This measures the quality of public services, the civil service, and the government’s commitment to sound policies.
Regulatory Quality: This assesses the government’s ability to formulate and implement sound policies and regulations that promote private sector development.
Rule of Law: This measures the extent to which citizens have confidence in and abide by the rules of society, including the quality of contract enforcement, the police, and the courts.
Control of Corruption: This captures perceptions of corruption, including the extent to which public power is exercised for private gain.
A decline in any of these areas can have serious implications for a country’s development. For example, poor governance can deter foreign investment, hinder economic growth, and exacerbate social inequalities.
It’s important to note that Morocco has made strides in recent years to improve its governance. The country has implemented various reforms aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, promoting transparency, and combating corruption. However, this recent decline in the good governance ranking suggests that more needs to be done.
To reverse this trend, the Moroccan government should prioritize:
Enhancing government transparency and accountability: This includes making government data more accessible to the public and strengthening mechanisms for citizens to hold their leaders accountable.
Improving the delivery of public services: This involves investing in education, healthcare, and other essential services, as well as ensuring that these services are delivered efficiently and equitably.
* Creating a more business-friendly environment: This includes streamlining regulations, reducing corruption, and ensuring a level playing field for all businesses.
By addressing these critical areas, Morocco can work towards improving its governance and creating a more prosperous and equitable society for all its citizens.
