International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume II, Issue VIII, August 2018 | ISSN 2454–6186

Civil Society and Democratization Process in Developing Country: A Review

Shahajadi Khanom

Lecturer in Political Science, Officer on Special Duty (education leave), Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education. Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract: Civil society is an essential pillar of democracy. The role of civil society in developing country to establish democracy is very vital and important. This paper presents the concept of civil society, it’s origin, idea of democracy, democratization and finally the role of civil society in democratization process especially in developing country like Bangladesh.

Key words: civil society, democracy, democratization, developing country.

I. INTRODUCTION

Civil society encompasses the social groups and institutions between the individuals and the state. The existence of an active, diverse and inclusive civil society is an integral component and important indicator of a mature democratic society. It is acknowledged that civil society organizations contribute to democratic consolidation by strengthening governance mechanisms and promoting open and transparent decision-making processes. In recent years suggests that one can not overlook the contribution of the civil society to democratization and democratic consolidation in developing countries like Bangladesh, Indonesia, The Philippines etc. Without the participation of the civil society, it would not have been achieved. Although their role was only supportive, it lent popular weight to the democratic transition and helped deepen democracy.

II. CONCEPT OF CIVIL SOCIETY

Civil society encompasses the social group and institutions between the individual and the state. Civil society is the aggregate of non-governmental organizations and institutions that manifest interests and will of citizens but operating outside the governmental and non –profit sector. Civil society includes the family and the private sphere, referred to as the “third sector “of society, distinct from government and business.

Civil society organization are now sometimes called “intermediary institution and include NGOs, independent media, community and social groups, professional associations, trade unions, self – help groups, social and professional associations, social and political movements, advocacy groups and like. United Nations, Red Cross and rotary international are international civil society.