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By Youness Lasfar

North Africa and the Middle East (MENA) stand at the heart of global health transformation. With young populations, diverse health systems, and rapid digital growth, the region is uniquely positioned to benefit from Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare. At the same time, political instability, unequal access to resources, and fragmented governance frameworks pose real challenges. The question for the MENA region is not whether to adopt AI in health, but how to do so responsibly, inclusively, and collaboratively.

AI offers remarkable opportunities for countries across North Africa and the Middle East. In Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco, young innovators are testing AI solutions for early disease detection and medical imaging. In the Gulf, countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in digital health strategies and AI-driven hospital systems. These investments promise to improve efficiency, reduce diagnostic errors, and personalize care. For conflict-affected areas, AI combined with telemedicine could also provide life-saving access to health services where medical personnel are scarce.

Yet the region also faces unique barriers. Health inequalities remain deep, with rural communities often lacking the connectivity and infrastructure needed to benefit from AI. Data governance is another pressing issue. While some Gulf countries have advanced regulations, many others still lack comprehensive frameworks for data privacy and patient rights. Without regional coordination, these gaps create risks of misuse, exclusion, or unequal benefits.

Another challenge is trust. In parts of the Middle East and North Africa, low trust in institutions and concerns about surveillance complicate the adoption of digital tools. For AI to succeed, governments and companies must commit to transparency, explainability, and accountability. Citizens need to understand how their data is used and how AI systems reach decisions that affect their health.

Despite these challenges, the MENA region has a unique strength: youth leadership. With more than half the population under 30, young people are not only the main beneficiaries of digital health, they are also the key drivers of innovation. From start-ups in Cairo to policy networks in Rabat, youth-led initiatives are pushing for ethical, inclusive, and sustainable approaches to AI. Their voices must be integrated into regional governance platforms, ensuring that solutions reflect the realities of diverse communities.

Regional cooperation can unlock the potential of AI in health for the whole of MENA. North African countries can share lessons from their partnerships with Europe, while Gulf states can contribute advanced technological infrastructure and investment. Platforms like the Arab League, the Union for the Mediterranean, and youth networks supported by the Anna Lindh Foundation already provide spaces for dialogue. Building on these, the region could develop a MENA-wide framework for ethical AI in health, harmonizing standards and pooling expertise.

Partnerships with international organizations also matter. Collaboration with the World Health Organization, the European Union, and UN agencies can provide technical support, funding, and global visibility. But to be effective, these partnerships must avoid one-way dependency. Instead, they should empower local actors, foster knowledge exchange, and strengthen regional research capacity.

The pathway forward for North Africa and the Middle East lies in combining innovation with ethics. By embedding values of equity, inclusivity, and human rights into digital health strategies, the region can build trust in AI systems. By empowering youth and civil society, it can ensure that solutions are not only technologically advanced but also socially relevant. And by cooperating across borders, MENA countries can demonstrate that health, like technology, is strongest when shared.

AI will not solve all the health challenges of North Africa and the Middle East. But with responsible governance and collective action, it can become a catalyst for more accessible, equitable, and resilient health systems. The region has both the urgency and the potential to lead. The question is whether governments, institutions, and youth will seize this opportunity to shape a shared digital health future.

By Youness Lasfar

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare systems around the world. From medical imaging to predictive analytics, AI tools promise to make healthcare more efficient, accurate, and accessible. Yet, as these technologies advance, the question of ethics becomes increasingly urgent. Nowhere is this more relevant than in the Mediterranean region, where diverse societies, health inequalities, and rapid technological adoption create both opportunities and risks. Building trust through ethical AI is not just a technical matter — it is a political and social imperative.

Trust is the foundation of healthcare. Patients must feel confident that their personal data is protected, that decisions made by AI are fair, and that new technologies will not disadvantage them. In the Mediterranean, where histories of colonialism, unequal development, and political tensions shape public perceptions, trust in digital health systems cannot be taken for granted. Without ethical safeguards, AI risks deepening divides rather than closing them.

One of the central ethical challenges is data governance. AI systems depend on large amounts of health data, but privacy protections and legal frameworks vary widely across the region. Some countries have advanced data protection laws, while others lack clear regulations. This creates uncertainty and makes cross-border cooperation difficult. To build trust, the Mediterranean needs harmonized standards that guarantee patient consent, transparency in how data is used, and safeguards against misuse. A shared approach to data solidarity would allow countries to benefit from collective insights while protecting individual rights.

Another ethical concern is bias in algorithms. If AI is trained on data that does not represent the diversity of Mediterranean populations, it can produce biased results. For example, a diagnostic tool developed with European data may not perform well in North African contexts. To prevent this, AI systems must be validated across diverse settings, and local researchers should be involved in the design and testing process. This is not only a technical issue but also a matter of justice, ensuring that all communities benefit equally from innovation.

Accountability is also critical. When an AI system makes an error, who is responsible — the developer, the hospital, or the government? Without clear accountability frameworks, patients may be left without recourse, undermining trust. Ethical AI governance must establish transparent mechanisms for oversight, liability, and redress. This requires collaboration between policymakers, healthcare providers, and technology companies.

The role of youth and civil society in addressing these ethical challenges is particularly important. Young people across the Mediterranean are already leading initiatives on AI ethics, climate justice, and digital governance. Their voices bring fresh perspectives on fairness, inclusivity, and human rights. Youth-led platforms, research networks, and advocacy campaigns can help bridge the gap between technology and society, ensuring that ethical principles are not just theoretical but applied in practice.

Regional cooperation offers a path forward. The Mediterranean has a long tradition of exchange and solidarity, from cultural dialogue to joint crisis response. This spirit can be extended to AI ethics in healthcare. By creating regional centers for AI governance, offering scholarships and training for young researchers, and developing common ethical guidelines, the region can set an example of responsible innovation. Partnerships between North and South, as well as collaboration with European institutions, will be essential in this process.

Ultimately, ethical AI is about more than preventing harm. It is about actively promoting values that matter to people: equity, transparency, and human dignity. In the Mediterranean, where inequality and diversity coexist, these values are the key to building trust. By embedding them into digital health systems, the region can ensure that AI serves as a tool for solidarity rather than division.

The future of AI in healthcare will be judged not only by its technical achievements but by its ability to uphold human rights and strengthen social trust. The Mediterranean, with its complexity and interconnectedness, has the opportunity to lead the way. By committing to ethical AI, the region can build health systems that are innovative, inclusive, and trusted by the people they serve.

By Youness Lasfar

The Mediterranean has always been a meeting point of ideas, trade, and culture. Today, it is also becoming a bridge for innovation in healthcare, particularly in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The cooperation between Morocco and the European Union offers valuable lessons on how cross-border partnerships can support the responsible integration of AI into health systems.

Over the past decade, Morocco has emerged as a regional leader in digital transformation. Investments in health technology, the establishment of AI research centers, and the active involvement of young innovators have positioned the country as an important partner for Europe. At the same time, the EU has developed ambitious frameworks on digital health and AI regulation, such as the European Health Data Space and the AI Act. Bringing these two perspectives together creates an opportunity for mutual learning and shared progress.

One of the clearest lessons from Morocco–EU cooperation is the importance of harmonized governance. AI in healthcare cannot succeed in isolation. Data needs to be shared securely across borders, algorithms must be validated against diverse populations, and ethical principles must be upheld consistently. Through joint projects, Moroccan and European stakeholders are beginning to explore how data solidarity and interoperability can be achieved while respecting privacy and human rights. This kind of cooperation is essential if AI is to deliver equitable benefits across the Mediterranean.

A second lesson lies in the value of capacity building. While Europe has established strong AI research institutions, Morocco and other North African countries bring unique strengths in applied innovation and grassroots initiatives. Exchange programs, joint trainings, and Erasmus+ collaborations allow young researchers, engineers, and health professionals to build the skills needed to design and implement AI solutions. These partnerships ensure that expertise does not remain concentrated in a few countries but is shared across the region.

Morocco’s health system also provides important insights into real-world implementation. With its combination of urban centers and rural communities, Morocco offers a testing ground for AI solutions that must adapt to different levels of infrastructure and connectivity. Projects piloted in Morocco, such as AI tools for medical imaging in public hospitals, show how technology can be introduced gradually and scaled up when proven effective. For European partners, this is a reminder that AI must be adaptable, inclusive, and responsive to diverse health contexts.

Another key lesson is the role of youth and civil society. Morocco has a vibrant community of young entrepreneurs, researchers, and activists working on digital health and AI. Initiatives like AI4Health and AI4Climate illustrate how youth-led organizations can connect technology to broader societal goals. By engaging with these voices, EU partners gain fresh perspectives and ensure that cooperation is not limited to governments and corporations but extends to the communities most affected by digital health transformations.

Challenges remain, of course. Differences in regulation, funding capacity, and infrastructure can slow down collaboration. There is also the risk of dependency if one side provides technology while the other only receives it. To avoid this imbalance, cooperation must be based on partnership rather than hierarchy. Joint research centers, co-authored policy papers, and shared governance platforms can help ensure that both Morocco and the EU benefit equally.

Looking ahead, Morocco–EU cooperation in AI for health could become a model for the wider Mediterranean. It shows how countries with different resources and contexts can pool strengths to address common challenges, from non-communicable diseases to pandemic preparedness. It also demonstrates the potential of building a regional governance framework that balances innovation with responsibility, equity, and human rights.

The story of Morocco and the EU is not only about technology — it is about trust, solidarity, and shared values. By continuing to work together, both sides can set an example of how AI can be governed ethically and used effectively for the benefit of people across the Mediterranean. In a world where health systems are increasingly interconnected, this cooperation may prove to be one of the region’s most important contributions to the future of global health.

By Youness Lasfar

Across the Mediterranean and beyond, health systems are being reshaped by the rapid advance of digital technologies. Artificial Intelligence, big data, and telemedicine are no longer abstract ideas; they are becoming part of everyday healthcare. Yet, the governance of these tools — how they are designed, regulated, and used — will determine whether they truly serve the needs of all people. In this transformation, the voice of youth is not just important, it is essential.

Young people make up a significant share of the Mediterranean population. They are not only the largest group of future patients but also the emerging workforce, innovators, and advocates who will define the region’s health systems in the coming decades. Excluding them from governance processes would mean ignoring the insights of those most directly affected by the long-term impact of digital health.

Youth bring unique perspectives to the conversation. Many of us are digital natives who have grown up using technology in ways previous generations have not. We understand how young patients interact with apps, social media, and digital tools, and we are quick to recognize both the opportunities and risks. When youth are included in decision-making, policies and systems can better reflect real user needs, avoid unnecessary complexity, and promote trust.

Youth engagement also strengthens accountability. Too often, decisions about health data or AI are made behind closed doors by governments or technology companies. By involving young people — whether through youth councils, advisory boards, or regional networks — transparency improves and communities gain a stronger sense of ownership. This is especially critical in regions where mistrust in institutions can undermine adoption of digital health solutions.

In recent years, there have been promising examples of youth engagement in global health governance. Initiatives like the #MyHealthFutures Youth Network and regional youth advisory committees have shown how young people can co-create research, lead advocacy, and push for equity in policy frameworks. Within the Mediterranean, youth networks linked to Erasmus+, the Anna Lindh Foundation, and other cross-border platforms are beginning to raise questions about AI ethics, privacy, and fairness. These voices need to be amplified, institutionalized, and heard at every level of governance.

Of course, meaningful youth participation is not without challenges. Structural barriers, limited resources, and lack of recognition often prevent young people from being involved in high-level discussions. Many youth networks are underfunded or rely heavily on volunteers, making it difficult to sustain long-term engagement. Moreover, tokenism — inviting one or two young representatives without giving them real influence — remains a serious risk. To avoid this, youth must be integrated into governance structures in a way that gives them genuine power to shape outcomes.

What does this mean for digital health governance in practice? It means ensuring that young experts and activists are invited to policy consultations, technical working groups, and regional dialogues. It means funding youth-led research and giving visibility to young entrepreneurs working on health technology solutions. It means creating mentorship schemes that connect young voices with experienced policymakers, so knowledge flows both ways. Most importantly, it means treating youth not as beneficiaries but as partners.

In the Mediterranean, this partnership has the potential to transform digital health governance into a truly inclusive process. With its diversity of cultures, languages, and political systems, the region can set an example of how intergenerational collaboration shapes policies that are ethical, equitable, and future-oriented. By placing youth at the center, Mediterranean countries can build digital health systems that respond not only to current challenges but also to the aspirations of the next generation.

The governance of digital health is about more than technology. It is about values: equity, transparency, and human rights. Youth embody these values in their calls for justice, inclusivity, and sustainability. Their voices are not optional — they are the foundation of a digital health future that works for all.

By Youness Lasfar

The Mediterranean region stands at a crossroads where technology, health, and society converge. With its unique mix of developed and developing countries, rapid digital transformation, and pressing health challenges, the region has much to gain from Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare. At the same time, the adoption of AI raises profound questions of governance, ethics, and equity that cannot be ignored.

AI offers the Mediterranean countries the chance to address long-standing gaps in healthcare access and quality. Machine learning models can help detect diseases earlier through medical imaging, predict outbreaks, and optimize the allocation of scarce medical resources. For example, AI-powered diagnostics are being tested in Morocco and Egypt to support radiologists in identifying conditions such as pneumonia or breast cancer. In Europe, countries like Spain and Italy are piloting AI systems to monitor chronic diseases and improve personalized treatment.

The region also faces the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, from diabetes to cardiovascular conditions. AI-driven tools can provide real-time monitoring and prevention strategies, empowering patients to take control of their health. Combined with telemedicine, these innovations have the potential to overcome barriers such as distance, cost, and limited medical personnel in underserved areas.

However, the successful integration of AI in healthcare requires more than just technology. It demands a robust digital health ecosystem. The Mediterranean region is beginning to develop this ecosystem through investments in infrastructure, training, and partnerships. The European Union has launched cross-border projects to ensure interoperability of health data, while North African countries are experimenting with digital health strategies to modernize their systems.

Equally important is the role of youth. Young innovators, researchers, and activists across the Mediterranean are driving forward initiatives that bridge the gap between technology and health. Their involvement ensures that digital health solutions are not only technically sound but also inclusive, transparent, and responsive to the needs of their communities.

Despite the promise of AI, challenges remain. Data privacy and protection laws differ widely across the Mediterranean, creating uncertainty about how patient information can be shared and secured. Without harmonized standards, there is a risk of data misuse, exclusion, or bias in AI systems.

Equity is another pressing concern. While some countries are investing heavily in AI, others struggle with limited resources and weak health infrastructure. If not addressed, AI could deepen rather than reduce inequalities within the region. Moreover, the lack of clear accountability frameworks raises the question: who is responsible when an AI system makes an error that affects a patient’s life?

These challenges point to the need for regional cooperation. The Mediterranean is uniquely positioned to develop a model of AI in healthcare that balances innovation with responsibility. Countries on both shores have already cooperated in public health crises, from the COVID-19 pandemic to disaster response, showing that solidarity is possible. A similar spirit is needed to govern AI in health.

Shared governance mechanisms could include joint research centers, regional standards for AI in healthcare, and youth-led platforms to voice ethical concerns. Initiatives like Erasmus+ and the Anna Lindh Foundation already connect young people across the Mediterranean; adding AI and digital health to these exchanges would amplify their impact.

AI has the potential to transform healthcare in the Mediterranean by making systems more efficient, inclusive, and patient-centered. Yet, its adoption must go hand in hand with strong governance, ethical safeguards, and regional solidarity. By embracing innovation while upholding values of equity and human rights, the Mediterranean can set an example of how digital health can serve not only the few but the many.

The future of health in the region will not be shaped by technology alone — it will depend on the choices societies make today about how AI is governed, shared, and used. The Mediterranean, with its diversity and interconnectedness, has the opportunity to lead the way.

By Youness Lasfar

In recent years, Morocco has positioned itself as a regional leader in digital transformation. With initiatives such as “Digital Morocco 2030,” the development of smart cities like Casablanca and Rabat, and the growing integration of AI in healthcare, education, and public administration, artificial intelligence is becoming a central pillar of the country’s development strategy. Yet as AI’s presence expands, so too does the urgency of ensuring that its deployment is guided by ethical principles, transparency, and accountability. Governance is not a secondary concern—it is the foundation upon which sustainable and inclusive digital progress must be built.

AI holds tremendous potential for Morocco’s socioeconomic development. In the healthcare sector, it can enhance diagnostic accuracy and optimize hospital management. In agriculture, AI-powered systems can improve yield forecasting and resource efficiency. In public services, automation can reduce bureaucracy and increase citizen access. These opportunities, however, are not risk-free. Without a robust framework of governance, AI can also exacerbate inequality, entrench biases, and undermine public trust. Algorithms trained on non-representative data may discriminate against marginalized groups. Surveillance systems could infringe on individual privacy and freedoms. And the rapid adoption of opaque AI technologies, without proper oversight, could lead to misuse or unintended harm.

This is why governance must evolve in tandem with innovation. As Morocco integrates AI into its public and private sectors, it must also invest in institutions, standards, and policies that ensure these technologies serve the public good. Responsible AI governance is not only about preventing harm; it is about actively shaping the future we want to live in—one where technology promotes equity, human dignity, and development for all. This includes enshrining principles of human rights, transparency, accountability, and fairness in the design, deployment, and monitoring of AI systems.

The challenges are significant. Morocco currently lacks a comprehensive legal framework for artificial intelligence. While data protection is addressed through Law No. 09-08 and the National Commission for the Control of Personal Data Protection (CNDP), specific guidelines for AI ethics, algorithmic transparency, or impact assessments are still emerging. Public understanding of AI risks remains limited, and civil society involvement in AI policymaking is still in its early stages. Moreover, the lack of clear standards can lead to fragmented efforts across sectors, with some institutions pushing forward while others remain hesitant or unaware.

To overcome these barriers, Morocco can draw on several strengths. First, there is growing momentum in both government and academia to address AI governance. The AI Movement at UM6P, the Al Khawarizmi call for projects, and collaboration with international organizations like UNESCO and the African Union show a willingness to engage on responsible AI. Second, Morocco can benefit from the experiences of other countries, particularly within the Euro-Mediterranean space. The European Union’s AI Act, for instance, offers a valuable reference for risk classification, rights protection, and regulatory sandboxes. While Moroccan regulation must reflect its unique social and economic context, aligning with global norms can increase trust, attract investment, and facilitate cross-border innovation.

Just as importantly, governance must be inclusive. AI development should not be limited to technical experts or government agencies—it should involve youth, civil society, academics, and local communities. Initiatives like AI4Health and AI4Climate demonstrate how youth-led platforms can raise awareness, provide training, and advocate for ethical AI that aligns with sustainable development goals. Engaging citizens in the governance process ensures that AI serves collective interests rather than private power or state control.

Morocco’s path forward must combine strategic vision with ethical discipline. By embedding governance at the heart of its AI journey, the country can avoid the pitfalls that have plagued other fast-digitizing economies and instead chart a course of equitable, rights-based progress. This means institutionalizing ethics reviews, building AI literacy across sectors, supporting regulatory innovation, and committing to transparency in public-sector algorithms. It also means creating legal mechanisms for accountability when AI causes harm.

As Morocco advances toward its digital future, AI governance is not an optional luxury—it is a necessary foundation for responsible development. The choices made today will shape the societal outcomes of tomorrow. By investing in governance now, Morocco can ensure that AI becomes not a source of division or risk, but a force for inclusive growth and democratic resilience.

By Youness Lasfar

The European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act represents a landmark in global technology governance. As the world’s first comprehensive legal framework dedicated entirely to artificial intelligence, the EU AI Act is set to influence not only member states but also neighboring regions, including the Southern Mediterranean. For countries like Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, and Algeria, the Act offers both a model to learn from and a challenge to adapt to. As these countries work to develop their own AI ecosystems, the Act’s impact is already beginning to shape legal expectations, ethical debates, and policy development across the Mediterranean basin.

At the heart of the EU AI Act is a risk-based regulatory approach that categorizes AI applications based on the potential harm they may cause to individuals or society. Systems are classified into unacceptable, high-risk, limited-risk, and minimal-risk categories, with increasing levels of oversight and compliance required as risk escalates. This structure allows for both innovation and accountability, making it a practical framework for countries at different stages of digital development. For Southern Mediterranean countries, adopting a similar structure could provide clarity and help allocate regulatory resources where they are needed most. In Morocco, for example, where AI is being integrated into public services and smart city infrastructure, the risk-based model could guide the creation of standards for sensitive applications such as facial recognition, credit scoring, or medical diagnostics.

One of the most immediate implications of the EU AI Act for the region is the potential for legal harmonization. As the EU is a key trade and investment partner for many Southern Mediterranean countries, alignment with European standards may become a prerequisite for market access. For Moroccan AI developers, aligning with the EU’s technical and ethical requirements could enhance their competitiveness and open opportunities for cross-border collaboration. Conversely, failing to align with these standards could result in a regulatory disconnect that limits the ability of regional businesses to scale or interact with EU counterparts. This is particularly relevant for AI applications embedded in goods or services exported to the European market, such as health technologies, fintech platforms, or digital ID systems.

Beyond market access, the EU AI Act provides a comprehensive model of governance that Southern Mediterranean policymakers can study and adapt. The Act includes provisions for transparency, data governance, human oversight, and independent audits—elements that are still lacking in many national regulatory landscapes in the region. For countries that have not yet finalized their AI legislation, such as Morocco and Tunisia, the EU Act serves as a valuable reference point. However, the key lies not in copying the EU model wholesale, but in adapting its principles to local realities. The political, economic, and institutional contexts in the Southern Mediterranean differ significantly from those in Europe. Regulatory approaches must be proportionate, feasible, and aligned with local needs, including linguistic diversity, infrastructure limitations, and differing levels of digital literacy.

Another important lesson from the EU AI Act is the emphasis it places on fundamental rights. The Act seeks to ensure that AI does not undermine values such as non-discrimination, privacy, and human dignity. These concerns are equally relevant in the Southern Mediterranean, where surveillance technologies, algorithmic bias, and digital exclusion are growing risks. In many countries, there is limited public debate or civil society engagement on these issues, and even less formal accountability for the deployment of AI systems in public life. Learning from the EU’s approach, regional governments could prioritize the creation of rights-based safeguards and establish oversight bodies with the authority to investigate abuses or system failures.

The Act also introduces innovation-friendly mechanisms such as regulatory sandboxes—controlled environments where new AI systems can be tested under supervision before full deployment. This concept holds particular promise for countries with emerging tech ecosystems. In Morocco, for example, sandboxes could be used to test health-related AI tools in partnership with hospitals or public health agencies, enabling innovation while ensuring ethical standards are upheld. This balance between enabling experimentation and maintaining oversight is crucial for building public trust and encouraging responsible entrepreneurship.

Importantly, the EU AI Act is not only a set of legal obligations; it is also a political statement about Europe’s vision for AI. By asserting leadership in ethical tech regulation, the EU positions itself as a normative power, capable of influencing standards globally. For the Southern Mediterranean, this is a moment to define its own stance. Rather than passively receiving external models, countries in the region can actively participate in the global conversation, contributing perspectives shaped by their own histories, values, and development goals. This includes articulating regional priorities such as equitable access to technology, inclusion of underrepresented communities, and the protection of cultural and linguistic diversity in AI design.

In conclusion, the EU AI Act presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Southern Mediterranean countries. It offers a robust framework that can inform local regulation and encourage ethical innovation, but it also requires thoughtful adaptation and local ownership. If governments, civil society, and regional institutions can work together to build inclusive, rights-respecting AI governance systems inspired by—yet distinct from—European models, the Southern Mediterranean has a unique chance to lead by example. Responsible AI in the region must not be shaped solely by external influence, but by a shared commitment to justice, dignity, and sustainable development in the digital age.

By Youness Lasfar

Artificial intelligence is rapidly influencing public life, policymaking, and digital development across the globe, and North Africa is no exception. From digital identity systems to predictive analytics in public services, governments in the region are increasingly exploring AI’s potential. Yet, the question of governance—how AI is developed, deployed, and regulated—remains deeply uneven. The 2024 edition of the Global Index on Responsible AI offers one of the most comprehensive overviews of this governance landscape, assessing over 130 countries across 57 indicators rooted in human rights, transparency, accountability, and inclusion. For North African countries, the Index provides a revealing picture of progress, disparities, and urgent areas for improvement.

Morocco emerged as the regional leader, ranking second in Africa after South Africa, with a global Index score of 22.99 out of 100. While this number is modest by global standards, it reflects a relatively strong foundation in comparison to its neighbors. Morocco’s performance was particularly notable in two areas: government action and engagement from non-state actors. Civil society organizations, researchers, and local institutions have played an active role in advocating for responsible AI frameworks and raising awareness of ethical challenges. Government initiatives like the Digital Morocco 2030 strategy and the drafting of a national AI law further supported Morocco’s position in the Index. However, the country still faces significant gaps in the areas of algorithmic accountability, inclusion, and legal enforcement, which prevent it from reaching a higher global standing.

Tunisia and Egypt, both scoring around 15–16, demonstrate more fragmented progress. Tunisia, for instance, showed relatively high engagement from academia and civil society but lacked robust national policies or government-led ethical AI initiatives. In contrast, Egypt scored moderately well on policy frameworks, benefiting from a national AI strategy and some regulatory proposals. However, its score was significantly weakened by the limited participation of non-state actors, which suggests that AI policymaking remains overly centralized and less inclusive. The absence of institutionalized public consultation mechanisms and independent oversight bodies hampers the legitimacy and effectiveness of Egypt’s AI governance efforts. These findings highlight a broader pattern seen across the region: progress tends to be either state-led or grassroots-driven, but rarely both.

Algeria and Libya represent the lower end of the spectrum, scoring among the bottom countries globally. Algeria, in particular, received one of the lowest scores in the entire Index, with zero evidence of a national AI framework, human-rights-based oversight, or active civil society engagement in AI ethics. Libya’s limited political stability and institutional disruption explain its lack of formal governance structures in this area. These results point to the challenges that fragile governance environments face when it comes to regulating emerging technologies. In such contexts, the absence of legal safeguards and ethical scrutiny can increase the risk of misuse, bias, and surveillance without accountability.

Beyond individual country scores, the Index sheds light on deeper thematic gaps across the North African region. One recurring issue is the lack of human-rights-based approaches to AI policy. Although many countries in the region have data protection laws or general digital strategies, few of them address the specific risks posed by algorithmic systems—such as discrimination, lack of transparency, and exclusion of marginalized communities. Gender inclusion is another critical area where North Africa lags behind. The Index found minimal evidence of national strategies or regulations that actively address gender bias in AI or promote equitable participation in AI development. This is particularly troubling given the risk that biased algorithms could reinforce structural inequalities, especially in contexts where women and minorities already face social or economic marginalization.

Another major concern highlighted by the Index is the lack of transparency and explainability requirements in AI systems deployed by governments. Most North African countries do not yet require that citizens be informed when AI is used to make decisions that affect them. Nor do they have formal rights to request explanations or human intervention in such cases. Without these safeguards, citizens are exposed to opaque systems that can shape their access to services, rights, or opportunities without recourse or accountability.

Despite these challenges, the Index also points to areas of opportunity. Morocco’s engagement with multilateral initiatives, such as UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of AI and regional AI strategies under the African Union, shows that North African countries can actively contribute to shaping international norms. Moreover, the presence of active research communities and youth-led initiatives in Tunisia, Egypt, and Morocco creates a foundation for inclusive dialogue and innovation. If governments invest in institutionalizing these voices—through formal consultation processes, funding for AI ethics research, and recognition of civil society expertise—they can build more resilient and rights-respecting AI ecosystems.

Perhaps the most important takeaway from the Global Index is that responsible AI governance cannot be achieved through isolated actions or top-down mandates. It requires collaboration across sectors, meaningful inclusion of affected communities, and a commitment to embedding ethical principles into both law and practice. North Africa stands at a crossroads. The region has the talent, the digital infrastructure, and the policy ambition to lead in ethical AI development. But this leadership will only be meaningful if it is accompanied by real accountability, inclusive governance, and a shared vision for AI that serves the public good.

The Global Index serves not only as a measurement tool but also as a mirror. For North African countries, it reflects both achievements and blind spots. The challenge now is to respond with urgency, ambition, and a willingness to learn from one another—so that the future of AI in the region is not only advanced, but also just and inclusive.

By Youness Lasfar

As Morocco accelerates its digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a strategic pillar for development across sectors. From improving public services to enhancing smart city infrastructure and expanding access to healthcare, AI is increasingly seen as a tool for growth and modernization. However, as the country moves forward with these technologies, the question of responsible AI governance becomes both urgent and necessary. Ensuring that AI is deployed in ways that respect human rights, promote transparency, and mitigate social risks is now a national priority—and one that remains largely under construction.

Morocco currently lacks a comprehensive legal framework specifically designed to regulate AI. While existing laws on data protection and cybersecurity offer a partial foundation, they do not address the unique challenges posed by automated decision-making, algorithmic bias, or transparency in AI systems. A draft AI law was announced in 2024, signaling political recognition of the issue, but it has not yet been enacted. In the meantime, oversight mechanisms remain fragmented, and regulatory authority is not clearly defined. Without specific legislation, there is no formal process to assess the risks of AI applications, and citizens affected by these systems often have no recourse to challenge decisions or demand accountability. The current legal landscape leaves Morocco exposed to potential misuse of AI technologies—either through lack of controls or through well-meaning deployments that unintentionally cause harm.

Despite this gap, Morocco has shown growing commitment at the policy level. The government’s “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy places AI at the center of national plans to reform public administration, digitize services, and stimulate innovation. New digital initiatives are being rolled out, such as the proposed establishment of a National Agency for AI Governance, which would coordinate the development of ethical standards, support the implementation of AI systems, and ensure adherence to human rights principles. In parallel, institutions like the CNDP (Morocco’s data protection authority) have begun issuing guidance on biometric data and emerging technologies. International collaborations—such as UNESCO-backed training programs and Morocco’s participation in global AI initiatives—show that the country is positioning itself as a regional player in shaping the future of AI. However, implementation remains at an early stage, and these policy ambitions must be matched with tangible legal and institutional reforms.

At the ethical level, several risks demand urgent attention. As AI systems are deployed in sectors like healthcare, education, security, and social protection, they risk reinforcing existing inequalities or excluding marginalized groups if not carefully designed. Gender bias, in particular, is a growing concern. Algorithms trained on biased data may disadvantage women and minority communities, especially in contexts such as recruitment or credit access. Moreover, many AI applications developed globally are not adapted to Morocco’s cultural and linguistic realities, raising concerns about digital exclusion for Arabic and Amazigh speakers. Public trust is also at stake. A lack of transparency in how algorithms function makes it difficult for citizens to understand or challenge decisions that affect their lives. With no legal requirement for explanation or human oversight, automated systems risk becoming opaque tools of governance, undermining the relationship between the state and its people. Surveillance is another concern, especially with plans to expand facial recognition and AI-powered monitoring systems in urban areas. Without clear rules or public debate, these technologies could infringe on privacy and fundamental rights.

Education and public awareness are equally important components of responsible AI. At present, most Moroccans have limited knowledge about the presence of AI in daily life or the rights they have in relation to these systems. This knowledge gap not only limits public participation in AI-related policymaking but also leaves citizens vulnerable to manipulation, misinformation, and discrimination. Building AI literacy through formal education, public campaigns, and community engagement is essential to empower people and build trust in new technologies.

To address these challenges, Morocco must move from intention to action. Passing and implementing the draft AI law would be a key step, providing a legal backbone to the country’s digital ambitions. Creating independent oversight mechanisms and ensuring meaningful participation from civil society, academia, and industry would bring much-needed transparency and inclusivity to the process. Investments in AI education, ethical research, and localized innovation would help ensure that AI systems are both culturally appropriate and socially equitable. Most importantly, the country must adopt a long-term, human-centered approach that treats AI not only as a technical tool, but as a powerful force that shapes society and must therefore be guided by shared values.

Morocco has a unique opportunity to lead on responsible AI in the Mediterranean and Africa. The foundations are being laid, and the political will is increasingly visible. What remains is to turn that momentum into a robust governance ecosystem—one that ensures AI is not only effective, but also fair, transparent, and accountable. Responsible AI is not just about managing technology; it is about shaping the future of society itself.