In this lesson, we will explore the role of civil society in the community and the contribution of civil society organizations (CSOs) in combating corruption.

Citizen participation refers to the role of citizens in addressing and fighting corruption. Such participation can take place on the personal or individual level, on a more organized level through CSOs, and through the media.

CSOs have been defined by the World Bank to include a wide range of non-private, not-for-profit organizations such as “community groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), labor unions, indigenous groups, charitable organizations, faith-based organizations, professional associations, and foundations”

Active citizens are crucial to the fight against corruption: they call attention to corruption, inform the population about the problem and its impact, and act as effective watchdogs of politicians and parties through regular monitoring and ensuring responsiveness and accountability from them. Active citizens help to cultivate anti-corruption behaviors. 

Flip each of the cards to know more about the different roles which civil society performs.

If you wish to learn more about the role of civil society in improving the state of affairs in Afghanistan, you may watch the two short videos below.  Click the play button to start.