Building the structure

In a regional context of a shrinking civic space repressive to human rights, civil society and community media organisations can struggle to establish themselves. Many countries in the Middle East have indeed restrictive laws and regulations that impede the formation and operation of organisations. It often imposes on them burdensome reporting and registration requirements and limit their funding sources.

Despite these challenges, many CSOs in the Middle East continue to persevere, adapt, and make significant contributions to their societies. MENA-can work with citizen initiatives to find innovative approaches to overcome obstacles, build coalitions, and collaborate with international partners.

We support civil society and media actors across in building their capacities to become more effective and creative in developing their leadership and organization, solving social problems, implementing effective programs, and incubating innovative ideas.

MENA-can support includes tailored coaching and training in:

  • Leadership and Governance: This involves establishing clear roles and responsibilities, promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical practices
  • Strategic Planning: Develop a strategic plan that aligns with the organization’s mission and objectives with specific goals, strategies, and actions
  • Financial Management: Build financial management systems that ensure transparency, accountability, and effective resource allocation. Develop budgeting processes, financial reporting mechanisms, and internal controls to safeguard the organization’s financial integrity.
  • Business model: Develop a diverse and sustainable source of revenue
  • Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster strategic partnerships and collaborations with other civil society organizations, the private sector…
  • Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning: Establish monitoring and evaluation systems to assess the organization’s performance and impact. Regularly collect data, measure outcomes, and learn from successes and challenges to continuously improve programs and interventions.
  • Technology and Innovation: Embrace technology and innovation to enhance organizational efficiency, outreach, and impact. Leverage digital tools, data management systems, and online platforms.