This is the sixth in Office of High Commissioner for Human Rights’ series of human rights practical guides for civil society, and should be seen within the context of ‘Widening the democratic space’, one of OHCHR’s current thematic priorities. This Guide highlights issues related to the work of civil society actors. It begins with a working definition of the terms ‘civil society’ and ‘civil society space’. It then provides an overview of the conditions and environment needed for a free and independent civil society, including relevant international human rights standards for freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly, and the right to participate in public affairs.