A scan of rural civil society

Abstract

PLAAS commissioned Phuhlisani to undertake a review of rural civil society, to explore innovative ways in which researchers and organisations in rural civil society can work together in linking research to policy engagement from ‘below’. PLAAS, being a research institute, is interested in how research can best empower rural civil society organisations (CSOs) in their dealings with government and other role players, and how to strengthen the democratic policy process. This review seeks new information that goes beyond the usual discussions of rural civil society to help inform fresh-thinking and a deeper understanding of the strategic issues involved in relations between poor, marginalised rural people, their organisations, and organs of the state.