Marib.. Discussion seminar calls for strengthening the role of civil society in monitoring government performance

On Thursday, the Mokha Center for Strategic Studies organized a discussion seminar in the city of Marib entitled “Components of Civil Society in Times of Conflict: From Absence to the Possibility of Presence and Influence,” with the participation of official bodies, experts, and representatives of civil society organizations.

The symposium aimed to discuss the reality and challenges of civil society in light of the ongoing conflict, especially in areas controlled by the Houthis.

The symposium highlighted the restrictions on the activities of organizations, unions and associations, and the impact of war on their role in areas under legitimate authority, in addition to discussing ways to restore their influence and enhance their presence in public life.

The speakers presented working papers that addressed the Houthi group’s violations against civil society, the administrative obstacles facing organizations in the legitimate government’s areas, in addition to exploring the available opportunities to reactivate their role in supporting development and strengthening democracy.

The participants recommended the necessity of the international community’s intervention to pressure the Houthis to stop the violations and activate the mechanisms of protection and legal accountability.

They also called for strengthening the capacities of civil society organizations, involving them in peace and transitional justice processes, improving governance and management, and investing humanitarian support in long-term development projects.

The symposium stressed the importance of building accurate databases, enhancing transparency and partnership between civil society and government agencies, and making use of technology to develop institutional work.

She also stressed the need to integrate civil society into formulating public policies, monitoring government performance and combating corruption.

It is worth noting that the Mokha Center for Strategic Studies is concerned with analyzing Yemeni issues and providing scientific insights that contribute to supporting decision-making and enhancing development and stability in the country.