The theme for this issue of The Druk Journal, “civil society”, is a critical element of democratic governance. It is an active sphere where civil society organisations (CSOs), non-government organisations (NGOs), and groups work in areas of common interest. This could include areas where the government’s impact is limited for various reasons. Internationally, civil society refers to organisations and institutions like labour unions, non-profit organisations, religious institutions, and other service agencies that provide important services to society but generally ask for very little in return. Some countries also include the independent mass media, think tanks, universities, social groups which can mean families, and the space where citizens associate around areas of need, concern, or interest.