Parliament and civil society: globalization and other issues of importance to the public are prompting non-governmental organizations to become more active in shaping policy agendas.

• Author: Augustine, Jean

The term "civil society" has been around for many years and is subject to much debate. Scholars and indeed governments differ in their views about the nature of the relationship as well as on the dividing line between civil society and the state. Further they disagree on the content of civil society -- does it, for example, include market relations, churches, criminal groups? One thing that is agreed, however, is that civil society has an essential role to play.

It is a necessary element in encouraging governing systems to work. Organizations in Canada and around the world have been responsible for forcing reforms in the public interest. Civil society is necessary to ensure that governments adhere to the principles of transparency and accountability. It is even more necessary for fostering citizen participation.

In liberal democracies such as Canada, the concept of civil society is predicated on principles such as the rule of law, political and bureaucratic accountability and freedom of association and participation.

Civil society is rooted in an idea that links civic responsibility (citizen engagement) and community service. Civil society sustains and enhances the capacity of all its members to build a caring and mutually responsible society. It means that all citizens -- individual, corporate and government -- assume responsibility for promoting economic and social well-being.

Civil society uses non-governmental organizations to fill the gaps that governments cannot adequately reach, and in return is a source of information about what is happening at the grassroots levels.

Civil Society and Parliament

Parliamentarians are the link between civil society and government. Our responsibilities demand that we be in contact with the pulse of our constituencies, understand their needs and encourage citizen participation. Civil society is a valuable conduit in ensuring this.

Connection between government and civil society can be fostered through participation and partnering by parliamentarians in community events and initiatives. This connection is often obstructed when there is little trust between government and civil society.

Legitimate concerns over the appropriate role of civil society in influencing government policies are feeding this mistrust. Building and finding ways to foster trust-based relationships with civil society is one of the challenging tasks facing parliamentarians. We must walk that fine line of balancing the interests of civil society with those of government.

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