Examine the notion of 'Civil Society' with a critical lens. In what ways does civil society facilitate democratic governance and promote political stability?

Functions of civil society

Role of Civil society in facilitating democratic governance

→ Civil Society Organisations engages citizens in the democratic processes by providing forums for discussion, debate & activism.

Ex: Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR).

→ civil society strengthens accountability and transparency of government actions.

Ex: Anti Corruption Foundation (ACF).

→ Civil society also promotes diverse views of various sections in ensure inclusive and representative democracy.

Ex: Center for Dalit Rights.

Role of Civil society in facilitating and promoting political stability

→ Civil society will promote mediation and conflict resolution.

Ex: Role of farmer NGO's in resolving farmers conflicts over farm bills.

→ Civil society will help government in implementation of government initiatives.

Ex: Role of Akshay patra in implementation of mid day meal scheme.

→ Civil society acts as a stabilising force during the times of crisis and also advocates for needs for marginalised communities to prevent any sort of social unrest / movements.

Critical perspectives on civil society

→ At times civil society will halt the developmental projects.

Ex: Civil society protests against Kundankulan Nuclear power plant.

→ According to C.W. Mills, civil society at times represent the views of dominant class.

→ Emergence of civil societies based on primordial identities such as caste, religion etc will cater to narrow interests.

→ Some critics argue that Civil Society's impact on bringing social changes is limited.

→ Civil society organisations becoming vehicles for extremist ideologies or sectarian contributing to instability rather than stability.