On 30 May 2006 the Center for the Study of Democracy organized a round table discussion on the past, present and future of civil society. Guest speakers at the event were Mr. Michael Edwards, Director of Civil Society and Governance at Ford Foundation and Mr. Martin Butora, Honorary President of the CEE Trust for Democracy. The key lector Mr. Edwards reviewed the different perceptions and ideas for “civil society” internationally. According to him the development of the civil society can explain the course of politics and social change, as well as serve as a practical framework for organizing both resistance and alternative solutions to social, economic and political problems. Historical experience shows that success in achieving good society goals has always been based on social contracts negotiated between government, business and citizens.
