Sustainable Energy Futures:
The Role of Civil Society in the MENA Region
Report
Produced by the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis and authored by Dr. Karim Choukri, this report examines the energy transition in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a focus on the role of civil society in advancing sustainable and inclusive energy systems. The analysis is based on policy review, official data, and comparative case studies from across the region.
The report analyzes the structure of the MENA energy sector, including energy supply, electricity generation, consumption patterns, and environmental indicators shaping national strategies. It highlights the region’s historical dependence on fossil fuels and the growing shift toward renewable energy driven by climate commitments, energy security concerns, and economic diversification objectives.
It further explores key challenges and opportunities related to the energy transition, including financial, infrastructure, and regulatory constraints, alongside the region’s significant potential in solar and wind energy, innovation, and regional cooperation.
A central focus is placed on governmental energy strategies and policies, assessing their effectiveness in promoting renewable energy deployment, improving energy efficiency, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The report also examines the contributions of civil society organizations in policy advocacy, public engagement, and community-based initiatives, despite the regulatory and financial challenges they face.
The report concludes with strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening governance, enhancing civil society participation, and fostering collaboration among public and private stakeholders to support a just and resilient energy transition in the MENA region.
This report has been conducted within the Just Transition Green Bridge project, a three-year action (2023-2025) implemented by a regional consortium led by the Arab Reform Initiative in collaboration with Alternative Policy Solutions – American University in Cairo, and the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis. The project is funded by the Civil Society Facility for the Mediterranean (European Union) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).
MIPA Institute
MIPA is a non-profit independent research institution based in Rabat, Morocco. Founded by a group of transdisciplinary researchers, MIPA’s mission is to produce systematic and in-depth analysis of relevant policy issues that lead to new and innovative ideas for solving some of the most pressing issues relating to democracy.
