“Civil society is one of the most powerful forces in our time” - Ottawa, Canada, 27 February 2014

Civil society is that part of society, distinct from the state, government and business, in which citizens create organisations that are private and motivated to enhance the public good. His Highness the Aga Khan spoke about the important role of a strong civil society in this speech to the Parliament of Canada on 27 February 2014. It was the first time in Canadian history that a faith leader had been invited to address Parliament. Please note that although the majority of this speech is in English, it does contain some portions in French. A translation is available in the podcast’s transcript and on the Aga Khan Development Network website. Click here to read the speech.