From Digital Access to Active Participation: Exploring the Evolution of Citizen Engagement in Morocco’s Digital Governance

Résumé

Abstract

This systematic review synthesizes research on digital engagement and online citizen participation in Morocco’s public digital services, focusing on how digital access shapes governance-related behaviors and enables the transition from passive service use to active participation. The objective is to provide a scientific and conceptual contribution to digital governance literature by proposing an integrative framework linking digital access, citizen engagement, and participatory behavior transformation, while offering policy recommendations with contextual comparisons to other developing countries. A systematic selection process covering empirical investigations, conceptual models, and case analyses was conducted, emphasizing multidisciplinary methodologies and major Moroccan digital governance initiatives.

Findings indicate substantial progress in digital access, contributing to improved service delivery, transparency, and administrative efficiency. Evidence also highlights a growing shift from passive consumption to active participation, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic, when approximately 40% of citizens engaged in local governance via digital platforms. However, persistent digital divides, socio-economic disparities, and institutional barriers continue to constrain equitable and sustained engagement, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. The literature reveals fragmented theoretical integration, underscoring the need for comprehensive socio-technical models that incorporate technological, social, and institutional determinants. Policy recommendations emphasize bridging digital divides, enhancing co-creation practices, improving institutional coordination, and delivering targeted digital literacy programs for underserved populations.

Overall, the review demonstrates that Morocco’s digital governance landscape is evolving toward more participatory models, but achieving inclusive and sustainable citizen engagement requires addressing structural inequalities and strengthening integrative governance strategies.

Keywords: Digital engagement, Citizen participation, Digital governance, Digital access, Morocco, E-participation, Social inclusion, Digital divide