Correct option is C
A civil society ecosystem refers to the broad collection of non-state actors, groups, and organizations that operate independently from government institutions but contribute to civic engagement, social development, and democratic participation. Let’s break down the options:
· Non-Profit Organizations (A): These are typically non-governmental organizations that work to address social, political, or environmental issues and are a core element of civil society.
· Online Groups (B): In the digital age, online communities such as advocacy groups, social networks, and digital platforms are considered an integral part of civil society as they facilitate engagement and collective action.
· Religious Leaders (C): These individuals often play a role in civil society by mobilizing communities, fostering social cohesion, and advocating for justice and moral leadership.
· Legislature (D): While crucial in governance, the legislature is part of the state apparatus and is not typically considered a component of civil society.
Thus, Non-Profit Organizations, Online Groups, and Religious Leaders are key components of civil society, whereas Legislature is part of formal state structures.
Information Booster:
1. Civil society includes a wide range of actors such as NGOs, professional associations, labor unions, social movements, and online communities.
2. Religious leaders, although sometimes part of hierarchical institutions, play a crucial role in mobilizing social change and moral leadership in civil society.
3. The term "civil society" originated from Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who emphasized the need for an independent civic space.
4. Online platforms are reshaping civil society by enabling quicker communication, global reach, and decentralized activism.
5. The Third Sector is another term often used to refer to civil society organizations, highlighting their role apart from the market and state.
6. Civil society contributes to advocacy, policy development, and accountability of governments, forming a crucial check-and-balance in democracies.