The constitutional dynamic of civil society and the role of the churches in South Africa

Abstract

The concept of “civil society” is an important facet of the relationship between church and state. Civil society, as an acceptable and extremely relevant element in presentday constitutional and political theories, contains characteristics which promote democracy and the freedom of religious expression. The churches in South Africa need to promote their religious interests by means of the insights associated with civil society. It is, in fact, through this generally accepted and dynamic concept, that the churches, without reservation, must be included as effective role-players in the public arena.