What does the term "civil rights" refer to?

The term "civil rights" specifically refers to the rights of individuals to receive equal treatment under the law. This concept emphasizes the protection of individuals from discrimination based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, disability, and religion. Civil rights ensure that all citizens have access to the same legal protections, thereby promoting equality in various aspects of public life, including employment, education, and housing. The historical context of civil rights movements, particularly in the United States, further highlights the struggle against systemic inequalities and the pursuit of fair treatment for all individuals.

In contrast, the other options focus on different entities or interests that do not align with the core meaning of civil rights. Governmental entities and countries do have their own set of rights and responsibilities, but these are typically referred to in terms of governance or international relations, rather than civil rights. Similarly, while corporations have certain rights, such as the right to conduct business, these do not pertain to the individual rights and protections sought in civil rights discourse.