Publication: The Role of Civic Engagement and Social Accountability in the Governance Equation
Date
2003-03
ISSN
Published
2003-03
Author(s)
World Bank
Abstract
There is a fundamental misunderstanding
regarding the role of civic engagement in development.
Oftentimes, engagement is perceived as existing in the
absence of a robust state. In addition, it is also often
held that the presence of a strong state reduces the space
for and scope of civic engagement. However, the existence of
a healthy and active civil society does not preclude the
existence of a robust state, and vice versa. In cases where
states are weak, or have failed, and are experiencing
conditions of widespread conflict and social
ungovernability, civil society organizations usually offer
the institutional basis for public service delivery and, in
many cases, they contribute to conflict resolution and
reconciliation efforts. Conversely, there is substantial
evidence than an effective and sound public sector depends
very much on the existence of a dynamic civil society and
strong citizen involvement in the public realm. Such
involvement can manifest itself in participatory engagement
in policy formulation and monitoring that brings
transparency and effectiveness to public institutions.
States with the capacity to enforce the rule of law, set
clear rules of engagement for civil society and promote
sound public policy have proven to supply an appropriate
environment for civic engagement.
Citation
“World Bank. 2003. The Role of Civic Engagement and Social Accountability in the Governance Equation. Social Development Notes; No. 75. © Washington, DC. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/11313 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”