Learning Lessons: Successful Engagement with Civil Society Organizations

Abstract

Social movements since the 19th century have altered political systems and social structures. At the core of these social actions are informal groups of individuals or formal organizations either espousing or galvanizing resistance to social change. Referred to as civil society in more recent times, they are characterized as non-state actors whose aims are neither to generate profits nor seek governing power. Civil society organizations (CSOs) unite people to advance shared goals and interests. At the international and local levels, CSOs tenaciously move toward having greater influence on decision making, governance, and actions that directly affect people. Specifically, in Asia and the Pacific region, most governments have recognized the role of civil society in their respective country’s development processes. Their actual engagements, though, vary within and across countries.