Canada

The Civil Society Index was implemented in Canada from 2000 to 2001 by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy*, leading to a report presenting the results of the CSI initiative in the country.

CSI Country Report in Canada 2001

The 2001 country report revealed a lack in baseline information for civil society organisations in Canada, despite their vibrancy and ability to lobby for social, political and economic change. This has made the health of the Canadian civil society very difficult to evaluate and assess. Targeted opinion survey conducted by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and Civicus revealed in the report, low levels of volunteer involvement and unfriendly environment in terms of various government regulations (for example the tax systems).

Despite these issues, the report records some interesting findings within the private sector. For instance, business leaders unanimously acknowledged that they need to play a more significant role in helping communities. This could be enhanced through broader corporation with local civil organisations in Canada.

Recommendations for the period of study suggest a renewed role and approach by the Canadian government, private institutions and civil societies in other to improve the health of civil organisations in Canada, towards enhancing their roles in advocating for social, political and economic change. More detailed information can be assessed in the CSI Preliminary report below.

CSI Country Report in Canada

*In 2006, the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy merged with the Coalition of National Voluntary Organizations (NVO) to form Imagine Canada.