Civil Society and Civic Participation in the Czech Republic

Based on differentiation between the terms civil society and the third sector the text defines the space of civic participation. The establishment of terminology and theoretical framework appears to be a key component, as the terms civil society and third (non-governmental) sector are often confound. Notwithstanding its long tradition the term, civil society is rather abstract and is today used mainly in theoretical and conceptual context. Whereas the term third sector is more practical and concrete, as it offers the possibility of factual definition, and is therefore used mainly in empirical research. The key factor for theoretical-empirical linkage of terms civic participation and civil society, is the fact that democratic political system is based on opportunity of citizens to participate and influence public affairs. The text further aims at conceptualization of research on civil society in Czech Republic. Consequently based on the determination of the role of nongovernmental organizations, description and analysis of the character of the non-governmental sector the text aims at definition of barriers of civic sectors and civic participation in the Czech Republic.