Forging the Fabric of Reform

Across the Middle East and North Africa, members of civil society continue to meet, exchange ideas, and forge networks essential toward advancing democracy in their socities.

One such gathering recently took place in Amman, Jordan, when more than 120 prominent  entrepreneurs and civil society activists came together in September to participate in the initial session of a year-long advocacy project called “Broadening a Coalition for Reform.”

“It was a very productive and collaborative learning experience for businesses and civil society organizations looking forward to future possibilities” one Egyptian participant said about the event, which was organized by the San Diego-based Beyster Institute and sponsored by MEPI.

The conference focused on connecting civil society leaders with influential businessmen and women to strengthen advocacy efforts in the region and address critical issues of sustainability.  Primary goals of this conference included identifying areas of mutual interest among the participants and crafting common action plans to advance reform.

The event included presentations by and workshops for participants on topics ranging from citizen empowerment to good governance and the rule of law, with an eye toward developing concrete projects for implementation.

During the opening session, Scott Carpenter, then Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, announced MEPI’s offer of $1 million to fund projects developed through the Coalition for Reform participants, who have begun drafting proposals to submit for consideration.

On the second day of the conference, participants worked collaboratively to develop advocacy action plans around five key topic areas: anti-corruption, transparency, women’s empowerment, the environment, and independent media.  The conference organizers plan a follow-on event to begin putting these plans into action, while strengthening the linkages between these two important sectors.

By sharing experiences and resources between business and civil society organizations it is hoped that this partnership will build on the moment for positive change taking place throughout the region.