ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with a working definition of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and then examines the interaction between NGOs, states, and intergovernmental agencies such as the United Nations. A relatively new category of geopolitical player merits attention; NGOs have been increasingly effective in negotiating for political space within a state-based world system. The history of NGO involvement in humanitarian crises spans more than a century. Some NGOs are major international organizations with multimillion dollar budgets, and others are community-based self-help groups relying on a few volunteers. NGOs are creating a significant place for themselves in the constellation of political forces reordering our world. NGOs claim to serve the needs of marginalized or underrepresented peoples; this is especially true in the developing world. The goal of NGOs is not to replace government but to work with government so that basic needs are met and policy reforms are made.
