b'09 CIVIC NATURE INDEPENDENCEHizmet is a civil society movement and acts independently. It is not an extension of a state or a political entity. Hizmet volunteers emphasize the internalization of democratic values, active citizenship and community participation, and they respect every individuals political choices. They stand against turning religion into a political ideology or making religion a tool of politics.10 CIVIC ENGAGEMENT ANDCONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETYHizmet participants consider it a social responsibility to contribute to society and to help solve societal problems. They see themselves as part of the human family. They are sensitive toward humanitys problems and aim to serve humanity.8'