What is the legal term for non-violent resistance against the government?

The legal term that best describes non-violent resistance against the government is civil disobedience. This concept involves knowingly disobeying certain laws or regulations to challenge and bring attention to unjust policies or governmental actions. It is characterized by its commitment to non-violence and often includes acts like peaceful protests, sit-ins, or marches. Advocates of civil disobedience believe that moral obligation compels them to act against laws they consider unjust, while accepting the legal consequences of their actions.

Passive resistance, on the other hand, is often associated with the same principles as civil disobedience, emphasizing a non-violent approach. However, it may not necessarily encompass the active, planned, and public defiance of laws that civil disobedience represents. Therefore, while passive resistance reflects a similar mindset, the term civil disobedience specifically captures the essence of organized and principled opposition to governmental authority.