THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY IN PROMOTING THE LAW
This article examines the attributes that characterise civil society as an actor that contributes to the rule of law. The relevance of the research topic is characterised by the degree of development of civil society and its impact on ensuring the rule of law. An analysis of some aspects of the content of civil society and rule of law concepts, comparing theoretical and practical aspects that are important for the implementation of law on the territory of the state was conducted. According to the author's position, civil society does not exist only to ensure the rights and freedoms of the individual. In return, civil society also requires the fulfilment of duties prescribed by law. The rule of law indicates that the state is a state governed by the rule of law, and the main purpose of a functioning state governed by the rule of law is to protect the rights and freedoms of the individual and the citizen on its territory. The rule of law is ensured by the state authorities, while the institutions of civil society are not directly subordinated to the state, but only interact with it. Civil society acts as an intermediary between the state and the individual, whose rights and interests are protected by the state. In the context of the study, the functions of civil society to promote the rule of law have been identified: educating the public about decisions, individual rights and responsibilities; strengthening the rule of law; increasing citizens' trust in the state and its organs; protecting citizens from abuse of power; control of state power and decisions made. It has been established that the notion of civil society is not legislated, which, in author's opinion, affects the understanding of essence and legal nature of civil society, as well as definition of its role in upholding the rule of law.