The role of civil of society organization in achieving the requirements of sustainable development

        مركز/ الأستاذ الدكتور أحمد المنشاوى

                  للنشر العلمى والتميز البحثى

                    (مجلة كلية التربية)

               =======

The Role of Civil Society Organizations in achieving the Requirements of Sustainable development

By

Dr. Ramadan Ismail Abdel Fattah          Dr. Elsayed Mohamed Abdel Rahman

United Arab Emirates – University of                 United Arab Emirates –University of

Science and Technology of Fujairah                  Science and Technology of Fujairah

College of Humanities and Sciences                College of Humanities and Sciences

Department of Sociology and Social Work         Department of Sociology and Social Work        r.ismail@ustf.ac.ae                                          elsayed.m@ustf.ac.ae

}     المجلد الأربعون– العدد الرابع - ابريل 2024م {

http://www.aun.edu.eg/faculty_education/arabic

The role of civil society organizations in achieving the requirements of sustainable development

Professor Dr. Ramadan Ismail Abdel Fattah

United Arab Emirates - University of Science and Technology of Fujairah

College of Humanities and Sciences - Department of Sociology and Social Work

r.ismail@ustf.ac.ae

Dr. Elsayed Mohamed Abdel Rahman

United Arab Emirates - University of Science and Technology of Fujairah

College of Humanities and Sciences - Department of Sociology and Social Work

elsayed.m@ustf.ac.ae

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the role of civil society organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements. The study employed a descriptive-analytical approach and included a sample of 150 experts working in the field of sustainable development within the associations and development departments, who have expertise in all aspects of sustainable development goals and their means of achievement. They were selected randomly from all associations working in the field of development using a questionnaire tool. The results of the study, according to the perspective of the study sample, revealed the importance of the role of civil society organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements, including environmental, economic, and social requirements.

In conclusion, the study provided valuable insights into the role of civil society organizations in achieving sustainable development across multiple dimensions. The findings underscored the interconnectedness of environmental, economic, and social factors in the pursuit of sustainable development goals.

Keywords: Sustainable development, civil society, environmental requirements, economic requirements, social requirements.

Introduction:

 Development issues have garnered widespread attention from countries worldwide, aiming to narrow the gap between nations. Developing countries, having suffered from cumulative problems rooted in a distant historical past, faced economic depletion and social backwardness. These conditions had a clear impact on all aspects of economic, social, political, and environmental life.

The focus on development intensified in some countries after World War II, driven by a dedicated effort to improve the quality of life for their citizens, especially after gaining independence. However, the pursuit of economic growth to achieve development had severe repercussions on the environment and its natural resources. This, in turn, negatively affected social and health aspects, hindering developmental progress, and prompting global attention to find solutions to rectify the consequences of unsustainable human actions.

The preceding discussion sheds light on the challenges governments faced in achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for their citizens. Despite the efforts, countries encounter numerous obstacles in their developmental journey, with health crises and their profound impacts on various life activities being one of the dilemmas hindering sustainable development.

Civil society organizations strive to enhance citizens' lives, meet their needs, and address their problems on local, regional, and global levels. These organizations actively participate in shaping and implementing developmental goals.

Problem Statement:

 Most countries worldwide have focused on achieving economic growth to satisfy consumer desires and drive development without sufficient consideration for environmental concerns. This has led to environmental pollution, affecting air, water, and soil resources. Economic aspects, driven by modern technology, contribute to unemployment and weakened purchasing power due to job loss. Social consequences include increased crime rates and drug abuse as unemployment rises.

Numerous international and local conferences and meetings have been held to address these challenges, emphasizing the interconnectedness of development with environmental preservation. The United Nations organized a conference in Stockholm in 1972, highlighting the individual's right to a pollution-free environment. This event marked the inception of the United Nations Environment Program. The World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg in 2002 aimed to evaluate the implementation of the Rio commitments, resulting in the identification of ten priority areas, including water, energy, health, agriculture, biodiversity, poverty, trade, technology transfer, information and research, and sustainable management.

The International Panel on Environment and Development emphasized the interdependence of environment, economy, and society. Sustainable development is an integrated process that benefits various sectors and generations. Decisions made in sustainable development must consider the effects on the environmental, economic, and social aspects.

In this context, the international community agreed on a global agenda for transformation, consisting of 17 goals and 169 targets. Known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this 15-year program is applicable to all countries, emphasizing the role of civil society in achieving sustainability.

Despite theoretical expectations that civil society participation in global sustainability policies would enhance legitimacy, acceptability, and policy effectiveness, recent studies critically examine the impact of civil society in shaping SDGs. Limited attention has been given to civil society's involvement in the technical aspects of global policy processes related to sustainable development, including monitoring, and evaluating SDG achievement. This research aims to explore the role of civil society organizations and their projects in monitoring and evaluating the Sustainable Development Goals, considering the economic, social, and environmental challenges they face alongside other sectors affected by and affecting the surrounding environment. The current study seeks to clarify the role of civil society organizations in meeting the requirements of sustainable development.

Importance of Study:

1. The widespread presence of development organizations today and their role in social and economic progress, as well as their contribution to development, underscores the importance of the role these organizations play in activating development processes.
2. The positive and crucial roles that development plays in achieving desired goals in Arab countries at present.
3. The various roles assigned to development institutions that they offer to society, contributing to its progress and development. They also support officials and communities in collaborating with these developmental organizations to fulfill the required roles for achieving sustainable development.
4. The focus of civil society organizations on development issues as the real challenges tackled through mutual reliance between governmental and non-governmental efforts. Each party contributes what it can to address social, economic, and health problems, among others.

Objectives:

The primary goal is to "identify the role of civil society organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements." This leads to several sub-objectives:

1. Understanding the role of civil society organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements.
2. Understanding the extent to which the role of civil society organizations is linked to effecting change for sustainable development.
3. Understanding the role of civil society organizations in the executive context of sustainable development goals.

Hypotheses:  

The main question is, "What is the role of civil society organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements?" This primary question will be answered through subsidiary questions:

1. What is the role of civil society organizations in meeting the environmental requirements of sustainable development?
2. What is the role of civil society organizations in meeting the economic requirements of sustainable development?
3. What is the role of civil society organizations in meeting the social requirements of sustainable development?

Theories of Sustainable Development.:

Sustainable Development Theory: Sustainable Development Theory is a holistic approach that seeks to strike a balance between economic advancement, environmental conservation, and social equity. It underscores the integration of these three dimensions to ensure lasting sustainability. At its essence, the theory acknowledges the intricate interplay between human prosperity, ecological well-being, and financial stability. An essential tenet of Sustainable Development Theory revolves around the principle of intergenerational equity, emphasizing the imperative of meeting present needs while safeguarding the ability of future generations to fulfill their own requirements. This entails responsible management of natural resources, mitigating environmental degradation, and fostering an inclusive economic framework that benefits all sectors of society. Furthermore, Sustainable Development Theory advocates for inclusive decision-making processes involving various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and local communities. By embracing this collaborative approach, development initiatives can be designed to be socially inclusive, environmentally conscious, and economically feasible. Critical principles of Sustainable Development Theory encompass the precautionary principle, advocating for proactive measures in the face of uncertainty, and the principle of the polluter pays, which holds individuals and entities accountable for environmental harm. Adhering to these principles facilitates the transition toward more sustainable development trajectories. One contemporary reference that explores Sustainable Development Theory is "Sustainable Development Goals: Transforming Our World" published by the United Nations in 2015. This comprehensive document outlines a set of 17 global goals aimed at addressing pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges while promoting sustainable development worldwide. (https://www.solarsister.org)

Participation Theory: It is a social theory that focuses on the role of citizens and individuals in the democratic process. The theory presents a perspective that emphasizes the importance of individuals' participation in decision-making, policy formation, and public administration. This theory is based on the idea that citizens are not merely passive recipients of decisions and policies that affect their lives, but rather should be active participants in this process. It also focuses on expanding participation to include all categories and classes in society, including marginalized and socially disadvantaged groups. This theory emphasizes that effective participation contributes to building more democratic and equitable societies, where individuals can better express their needs and demands. Through participation, citizens can enhance transparency, accountability, and                   social justice.

Multiple studies that have addressed this theory are considered useful for understanding how to apply it in different contexts, thus contributing to the development of public policies and enhancing community participation. (Anthony, A. 2008).

Representation Theory: Representation Theory seeks to understand how specific communities or groups are represented within governmental processes and effectively represented in decision-making and political processes. In the context of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Representation Theory underscores the role of these organizations in representing and advocating for the rights and needs of the communities   they represent.

NGOs are essential tools for civic participation and democracy, representing the interests and opinions of different segments of society. Their role depends on effective representation, enabling them to influence decision-making and policies.

By promoting civic participation, these organizations work to represent the voices, rights, and needs of underrepresented groups in governance structures. They aim to ensure that the opinions of all stakeholders are heard, and their rights secured in political processes and decision-making.

By advocating for the rights of communities and underrepresented groups, these organizations play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development and social justice. They seek to promote balance and justice in representation and participation in decision-making, achieving societal growth in a comprehensive and sustainable manner.( Fowler, Alan. 2020)

Empowerment Theory: Empowerment Theory is an approach that focuses on empowering individuals and communities, providing them with the ability, skills, and resources to make decisions and participate in political, social, and economic processes that affect their lives. In the context of civil society organizations and achieving the requirements of sustainable development, the role of these organizations can be understood through the Empowerment Theory as a means to empower individuals and communities, enabling them to actively participate in vital processes and decision-making that impact their lives. (M. A. (Ed.). 2000).

Advocacy and Influence Theory: Advocacy and Influence Theory expresses a critical perspective on institutions and social structures, providing a critical analysis of the social, political, and economic factors influencing society. Regarding civil society organizations and their role in sustainable development, this theory is applicable for understanding their critical approach to societal structures and their advocacy for change (M. E., &, K. 1999).

These theories play a vital role in understanding the evolution of societies toward sustainability, helping analyze social relationships, structures, and cultures that shape the transition towards a more sustainable future. Applying these theories can contribute to developing effective strategies to promote sustainable development in societies. These theories illustrate a diverse range of methods and concepts, each shedding light on different aspects of the challenges and opportunities that societies face in their pursuit of sustainable development. The study has benefited from the above theories in constructing questionnaire questions for the three dimensions: environmental, economic, and social.

Previous Studies:

 The issue of sustainable development has attracted attention and interest in numerous scientific studies across various fields. One such study is Gavin's (2019) exploration of sustainable development dimensions, focusing on humans, the environment, material and biological resources, intergenerational justice, social needs, and the efficiency of preserving human, social, and environmental resources, as well as promoting equality and social justice. Another study by Gabari (2009) highlighted the vital role played by community development associations in directly contributing to sustainable development goals. Baroud's study (2005) emphasized raising awareness among policymakers and planners to prioritize sustainable development for societal progress, safety, and well-being. The study by Al-Ma'loul and Yassin (2011) confirmed that non-governmental organizations seek to implement sustainable development dimensions in all activities and programs, along with achieving educational goals. Andersson et al.'s (2013) results affirmed the positive impact of education on personal responsibility and the desire to contribute to sustainable development.

Based on the review of previous studies related to the current research topic, it can be concluded that these studies were conducted in diverse social environments, revealing different dimensions from one community to another. The current study emphasizes dimensions associated with the study communities, clearly identifying the environmental, social, and economic dimensions influencing sustainable development.

Methodology and Methods:

The current study utilized a descriptive-analytical methodology to achieve its objectives.

Population and Sample:

Study Population and Sample: The study included 150 experts working in the field of sustainable development in the Social Affairs Directorate of Port Said and Ismailia governorates. These experts, working in the Associations and Development Department, were selected randomly, ensuring their expertise in sustainable development goals and means of achieving them. The sample was drawn randomly from all associations working in the development field.

Study Tool: The study tool aimed to collect data and information from the study population in line with the current study's requirements and title. To ensure the reliability and validity of the questionnaire, it was applied to a pilot sample of 15 individuals outside the original sample, with a 15-day interval. The experimental application confirmed the absence of significant modifications to its content. The Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated to assess the relationship between each dimension's score and the tool's overall score.

Table (1) Correlation Matrix between Dimensions of the Scale                  and Total Score.

From the previous table, it is evident that there is a significant correlation (0.01 level) among the dimensions of the questionnaire, confirming that the tool exhibits a high degree of reliability.

Table (2) Reliability Coefficients for Dimensions and the Total Scale.

Considering the results in the table above, it is evident that the reliability coefficients for the dimensions of the questionnaire and the total score are high. Based on these results, the level of reliability for the tool's content is considered suitable from a scientific research perspective.

Study Tool: The study tool aimed to collect data and information from the study community regarding the studied phenomenon. It was constructed according to the study title's arrangement. To ensure the reliability and validity of the questionnaire tool, it was applied twice in a 15-day interval to a sample of 10 experts in the field of development, selected from outside the original sample. The pilot application of the tool revealed no substantial modifications to its items.

Scale Standardization: The questionnaire, in its final form, consisted of (75) statements. Ratings were assigned from 1 to 3 based on the degree of agreement for all questionnaire items as follows: For the maximum score for each dimension of the questionnaire: the first dimension (75 points), the second dimension (81 points), the third dimension (69 points). For the minimum score, the first dimension (25 points), the second dimension (27 points), and the third dimension (23 points). The maximum standard score for the entire scale was (225), and the minimum standard score for the entire questionnaire was (75).

Results: The study results aimed to identify the role of non-governmental organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements. The results will be presented as follows:

Sample Characteristics: As indicated in Table (1), which describes the personal characteristics of the individuals in the sample, consisting of (150) individuals, who are experts working in the field of sustainable development, selected randomly.

Table (3) Distribution of the Study Sample According to Personal                 Variables n=150

The number of males is (95), constituting (63.3%) of the total individuals in the study sample. The number of females in the study sample is (55), representing (36.7%) of the total study sample. This indicates an increased role of males in various development and participation activities  in life.

Table (4) Characteristics of the Study Population Based                on Age. n=150

The study results indicate that most of the participants fall within the age category (30 to less than 40 years), numbering (75) individuals, constituting a percentage of (50%) of the total study sample. This underscores the role of youth in development, equipped with knowledge, competence, and effectiveness.

Table (5) Characteristics of the Study Population Based on            Educational Status. n=150

The study results revealed an increase in the percentage of individuals with postgraduate qualifications (master’s and Ph.D.), numbering (120), with a percentage of (80.28%). This indicates that this category possesses a high level of knowledge, experience, and the ability to plan and implement in the field of development.

Table (6) Characteristics of the Study Community According to                    Years of Experience. n=150.

The study results in the variable of years of experience revealed that the number of individuals with experience ranging from 5 to less than 10 years was (85), accounting for a percentage of (56.7%) of the participants. In the second position were those with 10 to less than 15 years of experience, numbering (30) individuals, representing a percentage of (20%) of the total participants. In the third position were individuals with experience from 15 to less than 20 years, totaling (15) individuals, with a percentage of (10%) of the total study sample. This reflects the depth and diversity of experiences among the participants.

Table (7) Environmental Requirements for Achieving Sustainable Development n=150.

Through examining the previous table, it is evident that statement number (3), "Enlightening citizens about optimal methods of waste disposal," ranked first with a relative weight of (2.9). Statements (7) and (9) were tied for the second position: "Transporting hospital waste to safe sanitary landfills" and "Raising awareness among citizens about proper methods of disposing masks." Undoubtedly, enlightening citizens about optimal waste disposal methods is crucial. In this regard, it is worth mentioning that proper waste disposal has numerous advantages, including scientific and practical waste management that reduces the harmful effects of waste on the environment, minimizes air pollution, preserves the health and safety of residents in adjacent areas from odors, unpleasant sights, diseases, and fires. Additionally, it maintains the health and safety of workers, visitors, and those living near the disposal site.

Healthcare waste comes in various forms and types, often responsible for spreading infections and polluting the air and soil. Therefore, the management of healthcare waste requires increased attention and efforts to mitigate the significant burden associated with poor practices, such as exposure to infectious agents and toxic substances. This can be achieved through building a comprehensive system that addresses responsibilities, allocates resources, handles waste, and disposes of it. This long-term process is supported by gradual improvements and raising awareness of risks related to healthcare waste, safe practices, and selecting environmentally friendly administrative options to protect people from hazards during waste collection, handling, storage, transportation, processing, and disposal.

The collaboration and joint efforts align with the theory of coordination and cooperation, focusing on how institutions and organizations interact to work together and achieve common goals. In the context of sustainable development, this theory is essential for understanding how various organizations, including civil society organizations, governments, and businesses, collaborate to achieve sustainable development goals.

Table (8) Economic Requirements for Achieving Sustainable                Development. n=150.

Through the examination of the previous table, we find that statement number (1), "Diversifying economic activities to meet market needs," ranks first with a percentage of (2.7) and a percentage of 91.1%. Statements (3) and (20) are ranked first and are repeated, with the text "Providing the necessary support for small and medium-sized projects" and "Continuous support for agricultural production," respectively. Economic production diversity in line with market requirements creates a broad trade exchange on one side and satisfies urgent needs on the other. Therefore, meeting economic activities to cover market needs is essential. In this regard, a study by Saori Miyake et al. (2012) mentioned that, considering recent energy and climate policies due to a range of environmental, economic, and social concerns, there has been an increased demand for bioenergy, leading to direct and indirect changes in land use through the study, research, and comprehensive understanding of land use dynamics for bioenergy crop production (Miyake et al., 2012).

The importance of continuous support for agricultural production arises from its role in providing food needs for the growing population, as emphasized by the Empowerment Theory. This theory focuses on empowering individuals and communities, granting them the ability, skills, and resources to make decisions and participate in political, social, and economic processes that impact their lives. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in economic sustainability. In this context, a study by James R. Addington (2011) concluded that for sustainable economics, food production must be prioritized due to its connection to food security (Addington, 2011.PH).

Table (9): Social Requirements for Achieving Sustainable                     Development. n=150.

Through reviewing the previous table, we find that statement (4) "Providing healthcare services to all citizens" ranks first with a relative weight of (2.8). Statements (2), (9), (12), (16), respectively, rank second, with a repeated second rank, with a relative weight of (2.7). Their texts include "Providing necessary support to families affected by pandemics," "Comprehensive coverage of all citizens with health insurance services," "Incorporating health education into school curricula for students," and "Supporting those unemployed due to the virus with financial grants."

Governments, during medical pandemics, worked on providing medical masks to their citizens to preserve their health, and they succeeded in achieving that in a short period, protecting their citizens from illness. Therefore, medical masks are of utmost importance for prevention. In the context of health disasters, health insurance has become an urgent necessity. This led to targeting the health insurance system to cover all citizens, with the state ensuring financial protection for the less fortunate and providing protection from financial burdens for families.

All paragraphs confirm the theory of representation, emphasizing understanding how specific societies or categories within the society are represented in government processes and effectively represented in decision-making and political processes. In the context of non-governmental organizations, the representation theory emphasizes the role of these organizations in representing and advocating for the rights and needs of the communities they represent. Partnership theory focuses on the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors and civil society to achieve common goals and sustainable development. This theory provides a framework for understanding how non-profit institutions, governments, and companies collaborate to achieve more effective and sustainable results in areas such as economic, social, and environmental development.

Results Discussion: The study aimed to identify the role of non-governmental organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements, and the study results showed the following:

1. The study results confirmed society’s awareness of the importance of women's participation in development and their awareness of their rights and pivotal role in various fields.
2. The study results indicated that most of the respondents are youth, aligning with the 2030 development plan to empower youth for active participation in sustainable development fields.
3. The study results showed that respondents held postgraduate qualifications (master's and doctoral degrees), indicating the role of this group in planning, and implementing at the highest quality levels.
4. The study results revealed that experience plays a crucial role in accelerating sustainable development plans.

2- Results related to the role of civil society organizations in achieving sustainable development requirements.

1. For the first dimension: The role of civil society organizations in achieving environmental requirements for sustainable development.

• The statistical distribution confirmed that respondents' responses regarding "Environmental requirements for sustainable development" were ranked as follows:

1- Enlightening citizens about optimal methods for waste disposal and transporting it to safe landfills. 2- Encouraging citizens to use environmental resources responsibly. 3- Urging citizens to adhere to social distancing measures and promoting investment in agricultural production. 4- Providing water and sanitation services to remote areas. 5- Preparing citizens to implement precautionary measures for dealing with pandemics, studying the environmental feasibility of existing and new projects. 6- Enhancing the role of civil society in raising awareness among citizens about pandemic risks. 7- Providing sanitization and sterilization supplies to government and private facilities and applying environmental conservation laws. 8- Focusing on environmental education to protect citizens from infection and imposing financial penalties on violators of precautionary measures.

1. For the second dimension: The role of civil society organizations in achieving economic requirements for sustainable development.

• The statistical distribution indicated that respondents' responses regarding "Economic requirements for sustainable development" were ranked as follows:

1- Diversifying economic activities to meet market needs and providing necessary support for small and medium-sized projects. 2- Encouraging citizens to optimally invest in natural resources. 3- Encouraging the private sector to enhance production while considering precautionary measures and seeking the expertise of conducting economic feasibility studies for projects. 4- Raising awareness about the role of small projects in generating income, combating poverty, and facilitating procedures for obtaining small loans. 5- Transitional training for workers in income-generating activities considering pandemic conditions and managing financial grants for non-regular workforce families eligible for support. 6- Raising awareness among workers about the importance of adhering to precautionary measures and revitalizing trade exchanges between regions. 7- Encouraging youth to engage in production.

1. For the third dimension: The role of civil society organizations in achieving social requirements for sustainable development.

• The statistical distribution indicated that respondents' responses regarding "Social requirements for sustainable development" were ranked as follows:
• Providing medical masks to all citizens.
• Providing the necessary support for families affected by pandemics and incorporating health education into school curricula for students.
• Supporting medical services for the poor infected with the virus in private hospitals.
• Providing free medical services for poor virus-infected patients in government hospitals.  
• Exempting children from families affected by pandemics from school fees.
• Establishing an accurate database about regions most affected by pandemics and encouraging entrepreneurs to provide medicines for the poor.
• Urging citizens to adhere to precautionary measures.
• Activating the role of civil society organizations in raising health and social awareness among citizens.
• Providing free virus immunization serums for the poor.
• Providing financial support to families with children in educational stages.
• Providing women's health services and free vaccinations at government medical centers.

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