CIVICS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

CHAPTER 1:
Civics is the study of how government, society, and citizens interact. It helps us understand
the roles and responsibilities of individuals within a political system. “Civics is the study of
the rights and duties of citizenship and the functioning of government.”
Citizenship refers to being a recognized member of a country or state. A citizen has certain
rights—like freedom of speech and the right to vote—but also responsibilities, such as
obeying laws, paying taxes, and participating in civic life.

Civic Engagement means taking part in activities that improve society and help solve
community problems. This can include: aoting in elections, volunteering or doing community
service, attending public meetings, and advocating for social or political issues.

1. Vertical community engagement is a top-down approach where decision-making

power is held by authorities or organizations, and the community's role is primarily to
receive information or directives. E.g; a local government body like public health.
2. Horizontal Community Engagement: Peer-to-peer approach, where community
members interact directly with each other, share knowledge, and collaborate without
the hierarchical power structure of vertical engagement. E.g a local neighbourhood
community.

Society: Society is a group of people who live together in an organized way. They follow
rules, customs, and shared values, and they depend on each other to meet their needs.

Social Groups and Interaction: Social groups are formed when individuals come together
and influence each other. Social interaction is how people act and react toward each other in
society. It’s the foundation of social relationships and helps shape group behavior,
institutions, and culture.

TYPES OF SOCIAL INTERACTION:

1. Cooperation: When individuals or groups work together to achieve a common goal.

• Students working together on a class project

• Doctors and nurses collaborating in a hospital

2. Competition: A social process where individuals or groups aim to achieve a goal

that others are also trying to reach, often resulting in rivalry.

• Students competing for the top position in class

 3. Conflict: A form of interaction where individuals or groups oppose each other due to
differing goals, values, or interests.

• Laborers going on strike against management

Culture: Culture is that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law,
custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society.

Types of Culture:

1. Material Culture – the physical things made and used by people

🡆 e.g., clothing, tools, buildings, technology
2. Non-Material Culture – the ideas and beliefs people follow
🡆 e.g., religion, language, traditions, values, morals

Social Institutions: Social institutions are big groups in society that help organize how
people live and work together. Institutions like family, education, religion, media, and
government structure society. They meet essential needs and shape our roles and identities.

Modern Citizenship: modern citizenship refers to being informed about one's rights and
responsibilities, actively participating in civic life, working towards social justice and
inclusion in society.

Difference Between Civic Engagement and Civic Participation

Civic Engagement Civic Participation

Involves a broader range of activities aimed at Refers to direct actions like voting or
improving society. attending meetings.
Usually started by governments or institutions. Started by citizens and grassroots
movements.
More formal, following rules and policies. More informal, flexible, and
spontaneous.
Focuses on raising awareness and promoting Focuses on being actively involved in
social change. decision-making processes
Examples: Government surveys, public Examples: Petitions, protests,
meetings, budgeting projects. community initiatives.

CHAPTER 2
What is Civic Engagement or Civic Participation?

Civic engagement or participation refers to any individual or group activity aimed at

addressing issues of public concern. It builds connections among people in society, often
through shared interests or services.
Issues Addressed by Civic Engagement:

• Social: Domestic violence

• Cultural: Honor killing, acid attacks
• Political: Social injustice, corruption

Importance of Civic Engagement

1. Improved Quality of Life: Activities like volunteering, voting, and organizing in the
community improve overall life quality. Engaged citizens identify and solve problems such
as crime, poverty, and education.

2. Social Cohesion: Brings people together and promotes unity. Builds mutual respect and
reduces social isolation and marginalization.

3. Better Public Services: Communities demand better services when they are active and
engaged. Can lead to improvements in healthcare, education, transport, etc.

4. Sense of Ownership and Responsibility: Involved citizens feel responsible for the
community. Encourages more participation and pride in one’s community.

5. Stronger and More Resilient Communities: Working together helps communities face
challenges. Creates unity and strength during crises like natural disasters or economic
downturns.

Conclusion: Civic engagement benefits both individuals and communities. It builds a sense
of belonging and purpose, improves mental health, and enhances life quality.

CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship means being a legal member of a country. It gives a person

rights like voting and protection under the law, but also duties like obeying rules and helping
the country. A good citizen respects others and works for the community.

Democracy: Democracy means rule by the people. It comes from a Greek word
“demokratia.” In democracy, people have the power to choose leaders and be part of
decisions. It makes sure everyone is treated equally and fairly.

Governance: Governance is how decisions are made in a country or group. It includes

making laws, running services, and being fair. Good governance means rules are clear,
leaders are honest, and people can take part in decision-making.

Rule of Law: Rule of law means everyone must follow the law — even the leaders. It keeps
things fair, protects rights, and stops abuse of power. A country with rule of law is more
peaceful and safer for everyone.

CHAPTER 3:
Definition of Rights: Rights are basic needs and freedoms every individual should have, to
live with dignity. They allow people to grow and take part in society. Rights can be legal or
moral — legal rights are protected by the law, while moral rights are based on what is fair or
just.

Legal vs. Moral Rights:

A legal right means others are legally bound to respect it. If someone breaks it, it becomes a
legal offense. A moral or natural right may not be written in law but is still expected to be
respected because it is based on justice and humanity.

Fundamental rights: Fundamental rights are the basic freedoms and protections guaranteed
to every individual by the law or constitution, which ensure dignity, equality, and justice in
society.

Human Rights in the Constitution of Pakistan

Fundamental Rights (1973 Constitution):

Pakistan's Constitution promises equal rights and protection to all citizens. These are known
as fundamental rights. Some important ones include:

1. Security of Person (Article 9): No person shall be deprived of life or liberty except
by law.
2. Safeguard as to Arrest and Detention (Article 10): Every arrested person must
know the reason and be brought before a magistrate within 24 hours.
3. Right to Fair Trial (Article 10A): Everyone has the right to a fair and open trial.
4. Protection from Slavery, Forced Labor & Child Labor (Article 11): Slavery and
forced labor are banned; children under 14 cannot work in dangerous jobs.
5. Protection Against Retrospective Punishment (Article 12): A person cannot be
punished for something that wasn’t a crime when they did it.
6. Protection from Double Punishment and Self-Incrimination (Article 13): No one
can be punished twice for the same crime or be forced to confess.
What Are Responsibilities?
Responsibility is the duty or obligation of individuals to act in a way that contributes
positively to society, respects the rights of others, and fulfills their roles within a
community. Citizens not only enjoy rights, but they also have duties toward the country.
These include obeying laws, paying taxes, voting, protecting national values, and helping
society. A responsible citizen supports peace, respects others' rights, and contributes to
national growth.
Constitutionalism means that the government’s powers come from a written constitution and
are limited by it. It keeps the government within legal boundaries. The constitution acts like a
guidebook that tells how the state will function, protects rights, and stops misuse of power.

Democratic Process: The democratic process allows people to take part in decisions that
affect them. It includes voting, expressing opinions, joining political parties, and staying
informed. It gives power to the people and ensures that leaders are accountable and fair.
 The Relationship Between the Two:
Democracy and constitutionalism go hand in hand. A constitution sets the rules of
democracy, protects people's rights, and limits the power of the government. Democracy
makes sure the people have a say in governance. Together, they support fairness, justice, and
peaceful political solutions.

Constitutionalism Democracy
It is the idea that government powers are It is a system where people have the power to
limited by a written constitution. elect leaders and take part in decisions.
Focuses on structure, rules, and legal Focuses on public participation and political
limits on authority. involvement.
Protects rights through laws and prevents Empowers citizens through voting and
abuse of power. collective decisions.
Works even without elections (if rule of Cannot exist without elections and people's
law is strong). will.

Legal Rights Moral Rights

Rights given and protected by law. Rights based on ethics, justice, or fairness.
Violation leads to legal punishment. Violation may cause social criticism but not legal
action.
Are written in legal documents like constitutions or Not always written but accepted by society.
laws.
Example: Right to a fair trial. Example: Right to be treated with respect.

CHAPTER 4
A state is a political organization that has a permanent population, defined territory,
government, and sovereignty. It is the main institution that controls law, order, and power in
a specific area.

FACTORS IN THE EVOLUTION OF THE STATE

The state didn’t exist in ancient times the way it does now. Over centuries, it developed
through different stages. The major factors in its evolution include:
 1. Kinship: Early human societies were based on blood relations. Families formed
tribes, and over time, these tribes grew into organized communities, which later
became states.

2. Religion: In many ancient societies, religion was a unifying force. Religious leaders
often held political power, and people believed rulers were chosen by gods. This
helped in forming early state authority.

3. War and Force: War played a big role in uniting smaller groups under strong
leaders. Victorious tribes or rulers gained more land and people, which helped build
early states through force and conquest.

4. Political Awareness: As people became more socially and politically aware, they
wanted laws, security, and fair rule. This led to organized systems and the
development of modern states with laws and governance.

BASIC ELEMENTS OF A STATE

Population: Every state must have people. The number can vary, but there must be a group
of people who live in the state and are governed by it.

Territory: A state needs a defined geographical area with clear boundaries. Without
territory, a state cannot exist.

Sovereignty: Sovereignty means full control or supreme authority. A state must be

independent and not controlled by any other power. It can make laws and decisions on its
own.

Government: Government is the system that runs the state. It makes and enforces laws,
protects citizens, and manages national affairs.

Social Contract Theory: The Social Contract Theory explains how states were
formed. According to this theory, people agreed to give up some of their freedoms and power
to a government, in exchange for protection and order. Famous philosophers like Thomas
Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau supported this idea.

CHAPTER 5
INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNMENT: Government is a political system by which a
country or community is administrated and regulated. It makes rules (laws), enforces them,
and makes sure everything is in order. Without government, there would be chaos (anarchy),
and life would be difficult.

MAIN PARTS OF GOVERNMENT

1. Legislative (Law-making) – Makes the rules.

2. Executive (Law-enforcing) – Makes sure rules are followed.
3. Judiciary (Law-interpreting) – Decides what rules mean and punishes lawbreakers.

LEGISLATIVE: The legislature is the law-making organ of the state. It represents the will
of the people and frames laws for the country.. It also controls finances, checks the executive,
and approves national policies.

• Tenure: Usually 4–5 years, depending on the constitution of the country.

• Number of Members: Varies by country and system. For example, in Pakistan, the
National Assembly has 342 members.
• It is divided into; Upper House (senate) and Lower House (national Assembly).

EXECUTIVE: The Executive is the branch of government that implements and enforces
laws. It runs the daily administration of the country, ensures that laws are carried out
properly, and manages national and international affairs.

• Head of State (like the President or Monarch): Symbolic leader in some systems.
• Head of Government (like Prime Minister): Real authority, leads the Cabinet.
• Council of Ministers / Cabinet: Senior ministers in charge of departments (like
foreign affairs, education, etc.).

JUDICIARY: The Judiciary is the branch of government that interprets laws, resolves
disputes, and protects the rights of citizens. It ensures justice by checking whether laws and
actions of the government follow the constitution. It acts independently and safeguards
fundamental rights.

• Supreme Court: The highest court of appeal and final interpreter of the constitution.
• High Courts: Function at provincial levels and handle appeals from lower courts.
• Lower Courts: Handle day-to-day civil and criminal cases in districts and cities.

FORMS OF GOVERNMENT

Governments are systems through which a state or community is ruled. Over time, different
forms of government have developed depending on the needs of people, history, and political
beliefs. Below are the major forms of government:
1. Monarchy (‫)بادشاہت‬

A monarchy is a form of government where power is held by a king, queen, or royal family
member. This power is usually passed down through family lines (hereditary rule). Monarchs
often claim their right to rule by birth or divine choice.

Types of Monarchy:

a. Absolute Monarchy ( :)‫مطلق العنان بادشاہت‬

In this system, the monarch has complete control over the government. They make laws,
control the military, and rule without being answerable to a constitution or public opinion.

• Example: Oman – Sultan Qaboos ruled with full authority for decades.
• Features: Fast decision-making, but may lead to abuse of power, unfair policies, and
limited public freedom.

b. Constitutional Monarchy ( :)‫آئینی بادشاہت‬

Here, the monarch’s powers are limited by a constitution. Real political power lies with
elected officials (like the prime minister), while the monarch has a ceremonial role.

• Example: United Kingdom, Canada.

• Features: Combines tradition with democracy, ensures rule of law and public
participation in politics.

2. Oligarchy (‫)چند افراد کی حکومت‬

In an oligarchy, power is in the hands of a small, elite group—often wealthy, powerful, or

from noble families. This group makes decisions that benefit themselves more than the
general public.

• Members don’t always gain power by family but by wealth or political connections.
• Some countries that claim to be democracies may actually be run by elite groups—
this is called an elected oligarchy.
• Example: Russia is often cited as a modern example of an oligarchic government.

3. Dictatorship (‫)آمریت‬

A dictatorship is a system where one person or a small group holds total power, often taken
by force. The dictator controls laws, media, and the public with little or no input from
citizens.

• Dictators may come to power through military force and often suppress opposition.
• They use fear, censorship, and violence to keep control.
Types of Dictatorship:

a. Totalitarian Dictatorship:
This type controls almost every part of citizens' lives—politics, beliefs, religion, education,
and even family matters.

• Example: Adolf Hitler (Germany), Stalin (USSR), Kim Jong-Il (North Korea),
Saddam Hussein (Iraq), Robert Mugabe (Zimbabwe).
• Features: Strict control, propaganda, public demonstrations in favor of the ruler, and
harsh punishments for opposition.
• In Pakistan, General Ayub Khan, General Zia-ul-Haq, and General Pervez Musharraf
are seen as examples of military dictators.

RELATIONSHIP OF CIVICS W OTHER SOCIAL SCIENCES

Civics is a social science that connects closely with many other social sciences. Each one
helps us understand citizenship, governance, and how society works. Here's how civics
relates to them:

1. Sociology

Sociology studies how people interact in groups, and how social structures affect behavior.
Civics uses this to understand social roles, group behavior, identity, and civic engagement
(like voting or activism).

2. Political Science

This subject focuses on governments, power, and politics. Civics overlaps with it in studying
elections, democracy, laws, and how people participate in political decisions.

3. International Relations

This field looks at how countries and global organizations interact. Civics connects by
promoting global citizenship, human rights, and understanding international cooperation on
democratic values.

4. Economics

Economics studies how goods and money move in a society. Civics and economics work
together to understand how policies, wealth, and inequality affect people’s participation in
civic life.

5. History
 History helps us learn from the past—how societies changed, and how political systems and
citizenship developed. Civics uses this to understand rights, democracy, and movements for
change.

6. Psychology

Psychology studies human thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Civics uses these insights to
understand attitudes, decision-making, group identity, and why people get involved in civic
action.

7. Geography

Geography examines land, space, and how people interact with their environment. Civics
uses this to look at patterns like urbanization, regional inequalities, and how location affects
civic participation.

8. Social Work

Social work focuses on helping people and solving community problems. Civics and social
work both aim to promote justice, support rights, and improve access to resources in society.

9. Criminology

Criminology studies crime, law, and the justice system. Civics connects with it by promoting
legal rights, understanding justice, and finding ways to deal with crime fairly in a democratic
society.

10. Demography

Demography studies populations—birth rates, death rates, migration, etc. Civics uses this to
understand how changes in population affect voting, public services, and civic programs.

Conclusion

Civics connects with all these disciplines to give us a complete picture of how society works
and how people can participate in improving it. Each subject brings in different ideas and
methods that help us solve modern social problems and become better citizens.

CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN

Constitutionalism means that the government’s powers come from a written constitution and
are limited by it. It keeps the government within legal boundaries. The constitution acts like a
guidebook that tells how the state will function, protects rights, and stops misuse of power.

Pakistan's Constitution promises equal rights and protection to all citizens. These are known
as fundamental rights. Some important ones include:
 1. Security of Person (Article 9): No person shall be deprived of life or liberty except
by law.
2. Safeguard as to Arrest and Detention (Article 10): Every arrested person must
know the reason and be brought before a magistrate within 24 hours.
3. Right to Fair Trial (Article 10A): Everyone has the right to a fair and open trial.
4. Protection from Slavery, Forced Labor & Child Labor (Article 11): Slavery and
forced labor are banned; children under 14 cannot work in dangerous jobs.
5. Protection Against Retrospective Punishment (Article 12): A person cannot be
punished for something that wasn’t a crime when they did it.
6. Protection from Double Punishment and Self-Incrimination (Article 13): No one
can be punished twice for the same crime or be forced to confess.
7. Protection Against Retrospective Punishment
No one shall be punished for an act which was not a crime at the time it was
committed.
8. Right to Dignity of Man and Privacy of Home: The dignity of a person and the
privacy of their home shall be inviolable.
9. Freedom of Movement: Every citizen has the right to move freely throughout
Pakistan.
Freedom of Speech: Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech, subject
to reasonable restrictions by law.
10. Freedom of Religion; Every citizen has the right to practice, profess, and propagate
their religion.
11. Equality Before Law: All citizens are equal before the law and are entitled to equal
protection under it.
12. No Discrimination on the Basis of Gender: The state shall not discriminate against
any citizen on the basis of sex alone.

RIGHTS ACCORDING TO UDHR (UNITED NATIONS HUMAN R)

1. All human beings are free and equal:

Every person is born free and equal in dignity and rights.

2. No discrimination

Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms, without distinction of any kind, such as
race, colour, sex, language, religion, political, birth or other status.

3. Right to life

Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.

4. No slavery

No one should be held as a slave; slavery and human trafficking are not allowed in any form.
 5. No torture and inhuman treatment

No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or

punishment.

6. Same right to use law

Everyone has the right to recognition everywhere as a person before the law

7. Equal before the law

All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection
of the law

8. Right to be treated fairly by court

If your rights are violated, you have the right to go to court and be treated fairly.

9. No unfair detainment

No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile

10. Right to trial

Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and
impartial tribunal.

11. Innocent until proven guilty

Everyone charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed innocent until proved
guilty according to law in a public trial.

12. Right to privacy

No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or
correspondence, nor to attacks upon his honour and reputation.

13. Freedom to move and live

Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each
state

14. Right to asylum

Everyone has the right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution

15. Right to nationality

Everyone has the right to a nationality. No one shall be deprived of his nationality nor denied
the right to change his nationality