Digital Technologies and Civil Society

Abstract

AbstractCivil society refers to social institutions outside of the confines of households, the market and the state. Such institutions provide a wide range of facilities and services in communities and society, generate employment, and create significant economic value through direct, indirect and induced expenditure. Notwithstanding this, voluntary, social and community organisations are rarely included in indices seeking to measure digital progress in society. Digital technologies can transform how civil society organisations operate and interact with their stakeholders. This chapter defines civil society, discusses the role they play in society, and the opportunities and challenges for digital adoption and use in civil society.