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Re engaging the citizen in post modern times: a look at different terms and approaches

This paper examines the role of citizen engagement in contemporary society and explores different terms, theories and approaches used to describe participation in civic and voluntary life. It considers how social change has influenced ideas of community, participation and engagement.

The resource provides context to support reflection and discussion within Volunteering Involving Organisations about the place of volunteering and civic participation in modern democratic societies.

Benefits for volunteer managers

  • supports understanding of broader concepts of citizen and community engagement.
  • provides context for discussions about volunteering and participation.
  • encourages reflection on evolving models of engagement.
  • informs strategic thinking and learning.

How to apply this resource

This resource is most useful when supporting learning, research or reflective discussions about volunteering, civic participation and engagement trends.

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More about the authors

Volunteering Queensland has for 41 years been the state’s peak body for advancing and promoting volunteering. It represents over 300 member volunteer involving organisations and support thousands more through a wider network, encompassing hundreds of thousands of volunteers, who contribute their time, money, and skills to the benefit of all Queenslanders.
reception@volunteeringqld.org.au 07 3002 7600
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Devolved government responsible for public services, policy and legislation in Scotland.
ceu@gov.scot 0300 244 4000 Contact Scottish Government
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