| 442 Part-5: Community Engagemene | COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT aaa a ( COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SH ° Community engagement(oJ#” Si. Dis a powerful force for governments, corporations, nonprofits, and education institutions (as well as communities themselves). Community engagement is also known as civic engagement. An effective engagement7,) (2 | i” ensures the community has contributed ideas and knowledge to the ~ decision-making ‘process( (4 13)} While engagement does not ‘guarantee consensus, it does ensure county decision makers are well informed. Community engagement is both a process (how we do things'e.g., ensuring(tt.<-) that communities have a say in decision _ making) and an outcome (what we want to achieve e.g., community building or involving parents:in a school). In planning and decision making, community engagement is-largely used as a process, but in community development and service delivery (E7f=-ts), community engagement is often both.a process and an outcome. sah "le, Community Engagement Saari oer ot ncn staan Seogrony ores Frneonigtal conn Community Engagement ] ‘Community is to a group of people based on | Engagement refers to the act of common geography (country, state, region, | including stakeholders in activities and suburb, neighborhood, etc.) or common | communications and allowing them to interest (customs, values, religion, needs, | contribute in a meaningful way etc.), which may include citizens, businesses, residents, stakeholders, and more‘and Community Engagement 443 i. Cavaye (2004): Community engagement is mutual communication(Luiy) and > deliberationGisé +4 ,#) that occurs between government and citizens that allows citizens and government to participate ((/ 24) mutually (444 |) in the formulation(et:U®) of policy and the provision(y"//) of government services. ji USDHHS (2011): Community engagement is the process: of working collaboratively (, + Ui7n/ UE J) with and through groups” of people affiliated(.:>2,) by geographic proximity(e-/dyi2), special interest, or similar situations to address issues affecting the well-being of those people. iii. Jiirgen Habermas: Community engagement is the process through ‘which individuals and groups engage in dialogue to reach mutual understanding and consensus on public issues. iv. Harry Boyte: Community engagement is a democratic practice. in which people take responsibility for the common good. He emphasizes the importance of citizens actively participating in. shaping their communities and institutions. y. Margaret Wheatley: Community engagement is a group. of. people working together to create a future that they all want. She emphasizes the power of collective action and collaboration in creating positive change. vi © Mark Warren: Community engagement is.the process of people coming together to tackle common problems and improve their shared conditions. He emphasizes the importance of collective action and\ community organizing in achieving social justice. i ( Forms of Community Engagement eureSosEigil - There are two forms of community engagement. oN Cominuatty Engagement Vertical Community Horizontal Community Engagement Engagement a) Vertical ‘Community Engagement: Vertical cOMMUny engagement involves interactions and collaborations between different levels or, hierarchies within or across organizations and communities. This type of engagement focuses on bridging gaps between different tiers, such as between grassroots organizations and higher-level institutions or between local communities and government bodies. It typically involve Top-Down Initiatives: Programs or policies initiated by higher authorities eg. government agencies, large organizations) that engage with local ‘communities to implement or enforce. @a: 5 3 Part-5: Community Engagement Bottom-Up Advocacy: Efforts by grassroots organizations or local communities to influence higher-level decision-makers or institutions. iii. Hierarchical Collaboration: Coordinated efforts that involve various levels of an organization or society, ensuring that perspectives and needs from different strata are addressed. | iv. Resource Allocation: Distribution of resources, support, and information from / higher levels to lower levels to facilitate community development and | engagement. )yn eet on see on piusorvuls Mobilization, pub pifferences Between Vertical and Horizontal Co ic p: Y eewrsrurimaning amu veereurey articipation, and social activism. / mmunity Engagement Aspect Vertical Community | Horizontal Community Engagement Engagement Definition Interaction between different | Interaction among peers within the levels of a hierarchy same level Primary Goal [Influence policy, - secure | Build relationships, share funding, address systemic | resources, work on local projects issues Participants Community members, | Community members, peers decision-makers, leaders pee |Communication | Top-down or bottom-up Peer-to-peer Flow Examples Meetings. with. government | Community workshops, officials, advocacy campaigns | neighborhood clean-ups Focus Formal channels, advocacy Collective action, mutual su Impact Systemic changes, _ policy | Local improvements, strengthened influence community bonds Tools Used Public consultations, | Social media, local events, lobbying, formal reports informal gatherings _Importance of Community Engagement (Why Community Engagement Matters?) ai her iG Citizens are engaged when they play a meaningful role in the deliberations, discussions, decision-making and implementation of projects or programs affecting them. Accordingly, organizational and government leaders need to broaden the way they see their responsibilities to include roles as facilitator, supporter, collaborator, and empower of citizens and stakeholders. Some, important benefits of community engagement are mentioned below: 1. Strengthening Social Connections (sti 4 u#d7e-): Community engagement fosters social connections and a sense of belonging among community members. It brings people together, encourages interaction, and creates opportunities for building relationships and supportive networks. These connections contribute to a stronger, more resilient community fabric. & SUOMEEIEUTR WUT RTUpEIeary VEEUUIEE WUT aeeeneeeee es i /flmi Civic and Community Engagement 449 2, Addressing Local Issues and Needs (7? 4 eh/ a! Je Je): Community ‘engagement allows individuals and organizations to identify and address local issues and needs, By involving community members in decision-making processes, their voices are heard, and solutions can be tailored to meet specific circumstances and concerns, 3. Empowering Individuals and Communities (tt, SPL, ab spi: Community engagement provides individuals with a platform to shape their communities. It encourages them to take ownership and responsibility for the well-being and development of their neighborhoods, 4, Enhancing Community Health and Well-Being (ita due» 2h1'.5:, Active community engagement positively impacts the health and well-being of individuals and communities. By promoting social connections, access fo resources, and shared decision-making, community engagement contributes {9 improved physical and mental health outcomes. Encourage Civic Participation &Democracy (ijt Lee f ezux? s ods? Ufo): Community engagement is a cornerstone of democratic societies, It encourages civic participation, democratic values, and active citizenship. When community members are engaged in decision-making processes and community initiatives, they develop a sense of responsibility and ownership over their community’s future. 6. Economic Development (37 Gv): Engaged communities tend to be more economically vibrant. Community engagement creates an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, local investment, and economic growth, By supporting local businesses, promoting workforce development, and attracting investment, engaged communities create opportunities for sustainable economic development. 7. Enhancing Trust and Social Cohesion se edTad Poised: Strong community engagement builds trust and social cohesion among community members. When people feel included, valued, and heard, it strengthens the community's social fabric. Trust and social cohesion foster cooperation, reduce crime rates and enhance: community well-being. 8. Generating Innovative Solutions(Y z=): Community engagement brings together diverse stakeholders, each with unique knowledge, skills, and experiences. This diversity of perspectives sparks creativity and innovation in Hee) 9. Building Sustainability(-6647);, Engaged communities are more resilient, better equipped to respond to crises and challenges: When community members are actively involved in decision-making and problem-solving, they develop a sense of collective responsibility and are more prepared to tackle future uncertainties, 10. Improve Knowledge( J, slit): Community engagement improves citizens’ knowledge and skills in problem solving, Participants learn about the issues in- depth. Greater knowledge allows them to see multiple sides of the problem, Citizens can practice communication and decision-making skills. viSe environmental conditions of their community. Let's GIscuss eursersrry on 9 or nowene ¢ ¥ relates to realizing potential, growth or expansion of something, or making something more effective. Put together simply] community development is the act_of growing, | expanding or making more effective groups “of people_who have mutual interests.] Development Community is a physical place, but it also | can be defined as people who live in the | same location, share common interests, jointly own or participate in something, tame common characteristics, or have =e Definine Community Development Aes £ing and resilience of communities. Only Nomes cae COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS IN PAKISTAN S sH In Pakistan, various community development programs have been launched jek he government, NGOs, and through collaborations between the government and N' - x) Government-Led Programs Only Nome 2 she 1»~Ehsaas Program: It was launched by the Government of Pakistan, this isa comprehensive poverty alleviation initiative. It includes various components like the Ehsaas Kafaalat, Ehsaas Nashonuma, and Ehsaas Emergency Cash programs aimed at providing financial assistance and social protection to the underprivileged. a4156 Part-5: Community Engagement a tac Nn adnate anaeany 2. Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP): Aimed at providing financial assistance to low-income families, this program offers direct cash transfers to support them in meeting their basic needs. S Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF): An organization funded by the government to work on poverty reduction through various initiatives including microfinance, infrastructure development, and health services. B)NGO-Led Programs Only Name J. Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP): It focuses on: rural development in the northern areas of Pakistan, providing support in agriculture, infrastructure development, and enterprise development. V4. Edhi Foundation: A well-known NGO providing emergency services, healthcare, and social welfare services across Pakistan. They. run shelters, orphanages, and ow hospitals to support marginalized communities. 3. The Citizens Foundation (TCF): Focuses.on providing quality education to Z underprivileged children by establishing schools in urban slums and rural areas. ‘C) Collaborative Programs: On|y Name - . Rural Support Programs Network (RSPN): A network of various Rural Support Programs (RSPs) working together with the government and international donors to support community-driven development, especially in rural areas. \% National Rural Support Programme (NRSP):It works closely with the government and various donors to implement projects in agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure development, targeting poverty alleviation and community development. 3. Human Development Foundation (HDF): It collaborates with local communities, government, and international donors to implement programs in education, healthcare, economic development, and social mobilization. These programs and initiatives highlight the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in’ improving the living conditions and opportunities for communities across Pakis'PUBLIC DISCOURSE & PUBLIC OPINION ae < WHAT IS PUBLIC DISCOURSE" 1 { Public discourse is the way people share their ideas and opinions’in public settings, It allows individuals to express their thoughts,-understand others’ perspectives, and build relationships through effective communication. Public discoursé is any public method or forum where people can voice their opinions and concerns about decisions and the decision-making process. In modern demoeratic’societies, public discourse is organized by various institutions and involves different actors and active participants in debates, [McLuhan explored how media and'technology influence public discourse.!He coined the phrasé “the medium is the message,” emphasizing that communication technologies shape < public-discourse ‘and cultural dynamics {Gramsci discussed public discourse in terms o} hegemony and ¢ultural dominance, examining how-ruling elites use ideological control to maintain power arid-shapé.societal:norms. So, public discoursé is essential for demociatic ___ Participation, fostering debate, and shaping public policies and societal norms.iniluences policy and societal norms: aoe in ender E (How TO IMPROVE PUBLIC DISCOURSE IN PAKISTAN? mo ( mt 3 Improving public discourse in Pakistan involves several steps to ensure that it is inclusive, infc-med, and constructive. Here are some simple ways to achieve better public discourse: .———— nmi Civic and Community Engagement 163 Imi CN 1, Promote Media Literacy: Educate people about how to critically analyze news and information. This helps them distinguish between credible sources and misinformation, 2, Encourage Open Dialogue: Create safe spaces for open and respectful dialogue. Encourage pcople to share their views without fear of backlash or discrimination. 3. Strengthen Freedom of Expression: Protect journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens who speak out. Ensure laws support free speech and prevent censorship. 4. Improve Education: Invest in education to raise literacy levels. An informed and educated populace can engage more effectively in public discourse. 5. Use Digital Platforms Wisely: Leverage social media and other digital tools to facilitate discussions on important issues. Encourage positive and constructive use of these platforms. 6. Support Civil Society: Empower NGOs and community organizations to facilitate discussions and advocate for various social issues. They can help bridge gaps between the public and policymakers: 7. Encourage Participation: Invite diverse voices, including women, minorities, and marginalized groups, to participate in public discourse. Ensure their concerns and perspectives are heard. 8. Promote Accountability: Hold public officials accountable for their actions through transparent and open discussions. This can be done through public forums, media, and social media platforms. 9. Enhance Local Media: Support local and community media outlets that cover regional issues and provide a platform for local voices. 10. Foster Empathy and Understanding: Encourage people to listen and understand different perspectives. This can be promoted through educational programs, community events, and media campaigns. \ROLE OF ADV' ‘PROBLEM S aw { What Is Advocacy?< (6s ss4) i py Advocacy simply means giving public support to : supporting cause or proposal the act ar process of advocating something. Advocacy is any action that speaks in favour of,.recommends, argues for . acause, supports or defends; or pleads on behalf ~ ayy: of others. Simply, advocacy means getting a support from another person to help you express your views and wishes, and help you »stand up for - your rights.”} 3TACUIG Va ssewenreee aris, BLUUDS ZIU/OF LUI VIUUals. and P giuup: t Types of Advocacy U3iSy4s4! Low 1. 2. 3: Some types of advocacy are méntioned: below Instructed advocacy: In this type of advocacy, the role of an advocate isto work with the person to bring together what they have to say in a way that puts their point of view across clearly: The advocate supports them in what they want to achieve. Non-Instructed Advocacy: When someone doesn’t have the‘capacity to tell the advocate what they want them to do, the advocate uses other approaches to make sure the individual’s life choices aren’t compromised. It could be that because of a brain injury, mental health issue, substance.misuse or temporary unconsciousness, someone isn’t able to make'a decision for themselves. Non-Statutory Advocacy: These services continue to play an important role,- providing advocacy where vulnerable people fall outside the eligibility criteria for statutory provision. : Self-Advocacy: In self-advocacy, a person is able to assess a situation themselves, | make choices about what they want and take steps to make it happen. They are able to communicate their views and preferences, and have these heard. We support people to develop the skills they need to self-advocate as much as ae) Dt ee Lites,( SOME PROMINENT KEY AREAS OF ADVOCACY IN PAKISTAN Lon { Advocacy in Pakistan focuses on many important areas to tackle social, economit} and political challenges. It works to improve education for all children, enhance healthcare services, protect human rights, boost economic growth and job opportunities, and encourage fair political participation and elections. Some other areas of advocacy are mentioned below: 1. Human Rights: é : i. Gender Equality: Advocacy for women's rights, combating gender-based violence, and promoting gender equality in education and employment. ii, | Minority Rights: Protection of religious and ethnic minorities, ensuring their representation and safeguarding their rights. 2. Education: i, Access to Education: Campaigns for universal access to primary and secondary education, especially for girls and children in rural areas. ii Quality of Education: Efforts to improve the quality of education, teacher | training, and curriculum development. | | 3. Health: i. Public Health Campaigns: Addressing issues such as maternal and child health, vaccination drives, and combatting communicable diseases. ii, Healthcare Access: Advocating for better healthcare infrastructure, services, and access, especially in underserved regions. 4, Environment: i. Climate Change: Raising awareness and pushing for policies to mitigate the effects of climate change, promote sustainable practices, and protect natural resources. ii. Pollution Control: Advocacy for reducing air, water, and soil pollution | through stricter regulations and public awareness campaigns.176 - Part-6: Advocacy and Activism “5. Governance and Democracy: i. Anti-Corruption: Efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and reduce corruption in government institutions. ii. _ Electoral Reforms: Campaigns for fair and free elections, voter education, and electoral reforms. __ 3 Conclusion: Advocacy in Pakistan focuses on tackling social, economic, and political challenges by improving education, healthcare, human rights, economic growth, and fair political participation. Key efforts include promoting gender equality, protecting minority rights, ensuring access to quality education, improving public health and healthcare access, addressing climate change and pollution, and fighting corruption while supporting fair elections. These initiatives aim to create a'more equitable and prosperous peaCYBERETHICS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF USE OF MEDIA aaa ax isis Cyberethies?%< 2 Gun Free Cyberethics is a branch of computer technology behavior that defines the best practices that must be adopted by a user when he uses the computer system. In simple terms, Cyberethics refers to the basic ethics and etiquette that must be followed while using a computer system. Ethics, in general, refers to propagating good behavior, similarly by cyber ethics we refer to propagating good behavior online that.is not harsh or mde. Cyberethics governs rules that individuals must be polite and responsible when they use the internet. Cyberethics aim to protect the moral, financial, social behavior of individuals. Cyberethics engages the users to use the internet safely and use technology responsibly and sensibly. / DB EBS-sorrnty ty 4 vausQ LULL UL CYDET EINICS. } principles of Cyber Ethics Onl g Sea oo RARE ERA AG Main principles of cyber ethits are listed below: Privacy: Respecting and protecting individuals’ personal information and data from unauthorized access or use. 7 Security: Ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of: digital information and systems, protecting them from cyber threats. : Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Respecting-the ownership and rights of creators and innovators over their digital content and inventions. ‘Accuracy: Promoting truthful and reliable information online, preventing the spread of misinformation and fake news. 2 Accountability: Holding individuals and organizations responsible for their actions and behaviors online, including ethical and legal consequences for harmful _ activities, Access: Promoting equal access to digital resources and opportunities, bridging the digital divide to ensure fairness.and inclusivity in the digital age. Digital Citizenship; Encouraging responsible and. ethical behavior ‘online, including respectful communication and behavior towards others in digital spaces. Transparency: Promoting openness and clarity in how digital information is collected, used, and shared by individuals, organizations, and governments. Freedom of Expression: Upholding the right of individuals to freely express opinions and ideas online, while respecting the rights and dignity of others. x Ethical Use of Technology: Encouraging the responsible and ethical development, deployment, and use of technology to benefit society without causing harm to- individuals, communities, or the environment. :INCLUSION ANU jea\ DIVERSITY IN SOCIETY Ie Inclusion in Societyed-*7 te > Inclusion in society simply means creating an environment where all individuals, foes of their background, identity, or abilities, feel welcomed, respected, and able to participate fully in social, economic, and cultural activities. It involves ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources, and that their voices and contributions are valued. Inclusion fosters a sense of belonging and supports diversity by removing barriers to participation and promoting fairness and equity for all members of the community. Nefinine Inchigian. 2 FC 2d.F