RI Y4 SS T1W7 Civil Society 2022

Part 2: Civil Society and its Development in Singapore

Definitions of Civil Society•The term ‘civil society’ has been defined in a variety of ways… More commonly, it is distinguished from the state, and the term is used to describe institutionsthat are ‘private’ in that they are independent from government and organisedbyindividuals inpursuit of their own ends. •‘Civil society’ therefore refers to a realm of autonomous groups and associations: businesses, interest groups, clubs, families and so on. •The term ‘global civil society’ refers to transnational organisations, such as NGOs and social movements that are ‘private’, non-profit-making, self-governing and voluntary. (Heywood, 2007)

Definitions of the State•The state is a political association that establishes sovereign jurisdiction within defined territorial borders, and exercises authoritythrough a set of permanent institutions. •These institutions are those that are recognisably ‘public’ in that they are responsible for the collective organisation of communal life, andare funded at the public’s expense. •The state thus embraces the various institutions of government, but it also extends to the courts, nationalised industries, social-security system, and so forth; it can be identified with the entire ‘body politic’. (Heywood, 2007)

Public vs. Private RealmsThe State (Public)Institutions of the state responsible for the collective organisation of community life, funded at the public’s expense, out of taxation. Civil Society (Private)Groups set up and funded by individual citizens to satisfy their own interests, rather than those of the larger society.(Heywood, 2007)

Definitions of Civil Society•A social sphere separate from both the stateand the market•Includes all organisationsthat occupy the “social space” between the family andstate, excluding political parties and firms•Term may include certain businesses and for-profit associations(WHO, 2014)

The State(government and the bureaucracy) The Market(private enterprises)Civil Society(non-government organisations) ParapoliticalorganisationsGovernment-linked & state-owned enterprises Social enterprises

Civil Society Organisations(CSOs)Non-state, not-for-profit, voluntary organisationsNongovernmental Organisations(NGOs)•Seek to influencepolicy of governments and international orgs. and/or complementgovernment services•Usually have formalstructure, offer servicesoutside membership, and are registeredwith authorities•May operate nationallyor internationally(WHO, 2014)

Definitions of Civil SocietyCSOs distinguished by purpose:•Voluntary welfare organisations(VWOs)•Charities, foundations, trusts, self-help groups•Trade unions and professional bodies•Religious groups•Clubs and societies•Special interest/advocacy/lobby groups