Civil society

english

Civil society refers to citizens or citizen groups working outside government and its formal institutions. It includes those working to promote and defend their interests, such as union and management organisations (“social partners”), professional associations, charitable organisations, non-governmental organizations, and organizations involved in local and community life, including faith-based groups. The concept is traditionally seen as separate from public and government institutions, and the private sector. However, in the context of this report, we have included the private sector, notably business groups, and especially those working with local populations.

Source: ICPC International Report 2010, pp. 185

french: Société civile

spanish: Sociedad civil