CAF COMMENT: MATT HANCOCK MP'S SPEECH ON CIVIL SOCIETY IN THE 21ST CENTURY
16 May 2018
Sir John Low, Chief Executive of Charities Aid Foundation, said: “The effects of the Civil Society Strategy will be felt across the world, as many other countries look to the UK as a global leader. At a time when the world is seeing a closing space for civil society, it is vital that the UK promotes a thriving culture where people give, take action and can speak out.
“Matt Hancock is right to say that global Britain needs local Britain, and that civil society is necessary for markets to be effective. Our research shows there is huge potential for growing giving amongst people in fast-growing economies and we should do all we can to grow that culture of civil society around the world.
“He is also right that civil society should play a role in shaping the development of technology as it changes at an astonishing pace. It’s essential for civil society to be involved, if his vision of ethical technology is to become a reality. As our work has shown, new disruptive technologies can bring incredible opportunities to deliver social good, but will also need charities to address the downsides that will surely emerge.”