Civil society refers to the area of social activity that exists independently of government and the private sector. These entities operate in the space between the state and the market and are generally concerned with advocating social, political and economic change, promoting public welfare and ensuring that citizens have a say in public affairs. Acting through Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Community Groups, Trade Unions, Social Movements, Media and the Press, they work for social innovation through collective action with the participation of the public.

• Smith, J. (2020). The role of civil society in modern democracies. Journal of Social Change, 15(2), 45-60.