The Equality, Equal Opportunities and Gender Committee of Youssoufia Municipality has criticized the municipal council for what it describes as a lack of consultation and communication, saying this is preventing the body from properly carrying out its advisory role.
In a statement issued on October 4, 2026, the committee said it was concerned about what it called “exclusion and disregard” by the municipal council leadership and its executive office. It warned that the situation could undermine its ability to contribute to local policymaking and development programs.
The committee said several participatory mechanisms within the municipality have not been properly activated, limiting its involvement in the preparation and monitoring of local policies and development initiatives.
Among its main concerns, the committee said municipal projects, action plans and development programs have not been submitted to it for review and consultation before being presented to the council. It argued that this prevents it from effectively exercising its advisory responsibilities.
The committee also raised concerns about the lack of regular communication with the municipal council leadership. According to the statement, the absence of an effective institutional dialogue makes it more difficult for the body to contribute to local public debate and put forward proposals on issues affecting the city.
It also highlighted what it described as a lack of the logistical and organizational resources needed for its work, saying that difficulties in holding meetings have affected its ability to perform its duties.
The committee further stressed the importance of an inclusive approach to local governance, arguing that its involvement could help strengthen the participation of different groups within civil society, particularly women, young people and people with disabilities.
The body called on the Youssoufia municipal council to restore regular communication with it and allow it to fully exercise its advisory role, including by involving it in discussions on projects and programs related to local development.
The statement comes amid broader discussions over the implementation of participatory democracy at the local level and the role of advisory bodies in giving civil society a greater say in local affairs.