The Middle East Advocacy and Research Center (MARC) is an initiative launched by a group of young individuals who have been active in civil society in the Middle East and abroad. The experience gained from many years in the field highlighted to the founders of MARC various issues that have not been addressed or have been largely ignored by members of civil society in the region. While MARC is based in Lebanon, where civil society enjoys greater mobility and freedom, many of the lessons learned have resulted in a methodology of work that can result in success in influencing policy while creating awareness at a grassroots level.