Civic Engagement Research Paper

We live in a more globalized and interconnected world through the use of technology yet, we are often disconnected from the policy decisions that impact our lives. Since governments do not have the resources or capacity to address all of the economic, political and social gaps that exist, it is crucial private citizens engage in the betterment of our societies. Civic engagement is one way citizens can help shape the collective future of their community albeit on a local or global scale.

Civic participation covers a wide array of activities in which citizens participate in the formal and informal political processes that address community needs and seek to improve the quality of life for individuals, groups and entire communities. There are three main themes of civic engagement. The first, civic, refers to regular volunteerism for a non-electoral initiative, active membership in a group or association, and participation in a fund-raiser for a charity. The second theme, electoral, refers to

Through active participation in civic engagement women can learn critical skills which are key to a leadership role in their communities. Women are empowered through an increase in self-confidence, expansion of their professional and social networks, understanding of structural problems facing society especially issues that are of particular concern to women and vulnerable groups, how to become effective agents of change, and how to devise multi-dimensional strategies to address human insecurities. Some of the specific skills women gain through participation in civic engagement are advocacy, coalition building, consensus building, constituency outreach, communication skills, grassroots organization, negotiation and mediation, networking, and organizational