Civic Engagement
Making Voting Easier Doesn’t Increase Turnout
To the surprise of many, making the act of voting easier hasn’t actually led to higher voter turnout. To increase turnout, we need to get more people interested in politics.
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Social innovations that enrich society and enhance democratic participation (more)
Strengthening Democracy by Embracing a Multi-Party System
Changing from winner-take-all single member districts, which limit voters' choices and races' competitiveness, to a multi-party system could significantly increase voter turnout.
Civic Engagement
Automatic Voter Registration Boosts Political Participation
Studies of voter registration systems around the world and recent reforms in the United States suggest that automatic voter registration can significantly increase registration rates and enhance turnout.
The Role of Philanthropy and Nonprofits in Increasing US Voter Turnout
The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and Stanford Social Innovation Review have partnered to publish a 15-part series of articles exploring whether and how philanthropy and nonprofits can improve US voter turnout and civic participation.
Tech and Innovation to Re-engage Civic Life
Inclusive governance will require that civil society, government, and industry work together to empower citizens.
The Emergence of Subversive Charities in China
A new type of charity has emerged in China that is able to sidestep some of the controls that the government places on NGOs.
Civil Rights Goes Digital
In both online and offline venues, activists at Color of Change are pursuing the fight for racial justice at Internet speed.
Pro Bono Goes Global
Some big law firms are venturing into developing regions to offer voluntary services and to advance the rule of law.
Making Better Use of Big Data
Data is a powerful tool for driving large-scale impact, but using it effectively and responsibly in government and beyond requires intentionality.
Government Contractors as Civil Society?
The Congressional hearings on Planned Parenthood illustrate that dependence of civil society organizations on government contracts compromises their autonomy, turns them into pawns in political fights, and erodes their legitimacy.