Governance is broadly defined as the means by which actors use purposeful efforts to

Governance is broadly defined as the means by which actors use purposeful efforts to make decisions, exercise power, and establish and promulgate public policies which directly affect human and institutional interactions and economic and social development. This process will eventually lead to the creation, reinforcement or reproduction of social norms and institutions.  It is necessary to note that in the 80's the concept was broadened as including, not just government actors, but also civil-society actors. Today, governance includes three sectors: the public sector, comprising state actors and institutions, the private sector, composed of households and companies, and the civil society which includes non-governmental organizations, which are said to work hand in hand in the process of governance.