The Evolution of the Concept of the Civil State Among Moroccan Islamists after the Arab Spring

The evolution of the concept of a civil state among Islamists in Morocco has undergone multiple phases. Initially, traditional Islamic parties and movements, such as the Justice and Development Party (PJD) and Justice and Charity Group (JCG), strongly adhered to the idea of an "Islamic state" based on Sharia. However, over the past two decades, political and social changes have pushed these movements to adapt to new realities and emphasize concepts of democracy and pluralism.

The (PJD), one of the most prominent Islamic parties in Morocco, has experienced significant shifts in adopting this concept. After years of adhering to the notion of an "Islamic state," the party’s leadership began to emphasize the principles of the civil state, including acceptance of political pluralism and participation in the democratic process within a modern civil framework. This shift marked a significant development as the party moved towards a more limited role for religion in governance, while still highlighting its influence in shaping societal values and ethics.

In a document published in 2014, the (JCG) called for building a modern and just state that is disciplined by the constitutional contract emanating from the popular will, a civilian state with all that this means in terms of moving away from the nature of theocratic, military and police states.

The protests of the Arab Spring played a crucial role in pushing Islamist movements in Morocco toward embracing the idea of a civil state. The February 20 Movement, which called for democratic reforms, compelled Islamists to align with popular demands, this led to a re-examination of many ideological stances.

Based on the above assumptions, this paper aims to study the evolution of the concept of the civil state among Islamists in Morocco reflects an attempt to adapt to changing political and social realities.