The Code for MENA Digital Democracy Hackathon Fellowship is designed to unite innovators, developers, and activists across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in creating technology-powered solutions that strengthen democracy and civic participation.
This program seeks scalable, inclusive, and open innovations that protect civic freedoms, expand public participation, and mobilize communities—especially in regions where voices are suppressed and civic space is under threat.
2025 Code for MENA Digital Democracy Hackathon Fellowship: Summary Table
| Field | Details |
| Organizer | CIVICUS – Code for MENA Initiative |
| Fellowship Type | Hackathon / Fellowship |
| Application Deadline | 23 August 2025 |
| Location | Middle East & North Africa (with Bangkok trip for top teams) |
| Eligibility | 18–40 years old; residents of Lebanon, Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, or Syria |
| Funding & Support | Seed funding, mentorship, networking, and post-hackathon support |
| Special Benefit | Fully funded trip to ICSW 2025 in Bangkok for the top 3 teams |
| Target Audience | Civil society actors, developers, designers, data specialists, change-makers |
About CIVICUS
CIVICUS is a global alliance of civil society organisations and activists committed to amplifying citizen action and strengthening democratic engagement worldwide.
Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, since 2002, CIVICUS has over 9,000 members across more than 175 countries.
Its broad membership includes NGOs, coalitions, networks, protest movements, volunteer groups, and advocacy organisations that work to create inclusive and participatory societies.
Program Objectives
- Encourage innovation in civic participation through technology.
- Support projects that safeguard civic freedoms and rights.
- Promote diversity and inclusion in democratic engagement.
- Build collaboration between civic innovators, technologists, and activists in the MENA region.
Fellowship Benefits
- Seed Funding: Financial support for four winning teams to pilot their solutions.
- Fellowship Certificate: Official recognition of your participation and achievements.
- Expert Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from regional and global experts.
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with a vibrant community of innovators and technologists.
- Bangkok Trip: Top three teams attend ICSW 2025 in Bangkok, fully funded.
- Ongoing Support: Post-hackathon follow-up to help scale solutions and increase impact.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be aged 18–40.
- Reside in Lebanon, Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, or Syria.
- Be a civil society actor, developer, designer, data enthusiast, or social change-maker.
- Apply individually or as a team (technical background not mandatory).
- Have an idea or be willing to join a matched team.
- Commit to diversity and inclusion.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their application through the official Code for MENA portal before 23 August 2025.
Clearly describe your idea, its scalability, and its potential to strengthen civic engagement in your community.
For more details about the fellowship, visit the official website here.
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