The dynamics of civil society-government interface in Ghana: 1980-2010.

Abstract

This article provides a historical overview of the interface between civil society and government in Ghana over the last three decades: Specifically, it deals with some civil society organizations (CSOs) that have distinguished themselves and with the political and legal environment in which civil society operates, and which may or not promote a good relationship between the State. It concludes that change has occurred in the relationship between the government and CSOs. The study found a shift in civil society-government interface from one of restriction and co-optation in the 1980s and during the period of democratic transition to one of increasing maturity in the 2000s when a number of rights were recognised to CSOs in terms of the 1992 constitution. In addition, civil society is respected as a developmental partner both in policy-making and implementation.