The present pamphlet primarily addresses the progressive and distinctive role played by civil society in development processes, political transitions and participatory policymaking, particularly in the Arab region where it has made headway on several fronts. Civil society organizations (CSOs) in both Morocco and Yemen, for example, have played a prolific part in contributing to constitutional reform and national dialogue, respectively. Arab CSOs were also actively engaged in the regional consultations and discussions that culminated in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that, in turn, reaffirms their anticipated role in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Furthermore, this pamphlet showcases some pertinent and resilient partnerships that ESCWA has established and continuously strives to reinforce with national and regional stakeholders, with the aim of promoting social justice, equality, participation, social integration and social protection, among other issues.