Civil Society

By definition, all such civic groups are nongovernmental organisations (NGOs), in that they are organisations not affiliated with government. However, in practice, the term "NGOs" is used to describe non-profit making, non-violent organizations, which seek to influence the policy of governments and international organisations and/or to complement government services (such as health and education). They usually have a formal structure, offer services to people other than their members, and are, in most cases, registered with national authorities.