unsplash free image, black lives matter march, Washington, United States

Giving Thought

WHY CIVIL SOCIETY MATTERS

How do we strengthen the vital role of civil society within democracy?

Civil society plays a vital role in any healthy democracy. It offers a space in which people can come together to share interests and common goals; and also a means to challenge the failings of current systems and thus improve society.

Here we explore the opportunities for strengthening civil society around the world, and the barriers to doing so. We look at what needs to be done in terms of policy and practice to ensure that civil society can realise its full potential.

Subscribe to the RSS feed for Civil Society Matters

Comment and Insight

VIDEO AND PODCASTS ABOUT CIVIL SOCIETY

The culture of philanthropy discussed at the 2017 ACF Annual Conference

Rhodri Davies discusses social inequality and how successful philanthropy from the past can guide the future of giving.

NAVCA's 2018 Forging Community Conference

Rhodri Davies in the Revolutionaries Roundtable, speaking about the impact of emerging dispruptive technologies on charity.

CAF at Tech:UK Blockchain for Good Event May 2018

Rhodri Davies talks about the speed of technological change and how tech will benefit, and challenge, charity.

CIVIL SOCIETY MATTERS RESOURCES

black lives matter march 150

From the margins to the mainstream

In this paper we explore what a range of historical examples can tell us about the complex relationship between philanthropic funders and movements that have sought to further diversity, equity and inclusion.
image1-megaphone128px

Do As I Say, Not As I Do: UK policy and the global closing space for civil society

In this report we explore recent policy developments affecting advocacy by civil society organisations in the UK, and the effect these may have on the UK's soft power.
In this report we explore recent policy...
image6-futureworldgiving128px

Future World Giving: Enabling an Independent Not-for-profit sector

This report warns that poor legislation on not-for-profit campaigning and independence could jeopardise efforts to promote giving among new generations of middle class people emerging across the world, potentially costing up to $224 billion a year to good causes by 2030.
This report warns that poor legislation on...
image7-map128px

Beyond Integrity: Exploring the role of business in preserving the civil society space

This report, produced by CAF in collaboration with the LSE, examines how some companies are going above and beyond their traditional role to protect civic space. It highlights case studies of companies that have championed and stood up for individuals and civil society organisations.
This report, produced by CAF in...
 
Visit the Giving Thought publications library

Recommended

diversity inclusion 380 220

Philanthropy, diversity and inclusion podcast

We look at the relationship between philanthropy, diversity and inclusion, and explore the role philanthropy has played in campaigns for social change.

Listen to the podcast
Uganda and Gorundwork for Growing Giving CAF

Growing giving around the world

With as many as 2.4 billion people set to join the world’s middle classes by 2030 we want to transform their communities through giving.

Discover our campaign to build giving across the world
Megan Ming Francis image header 380 220

Podcast: Philanthropy, civil rights and movement capture

We talk to Megan Ming Francis about her recent paper and her work on the role of philanthropic funders in supporting the civil rights movement.