Representatives of independent citizen organizations are increasingly active in policy making at the United Nations. These organizations - known at the UN as "non-governmental organizations" or "NGOs" - are often the most effective voices for the concerns of ordinary people in the international arena. NGOs include the most outspoken advocates of human rights, the environment, social programs, women's rights and more. This page links to information and analysis about NGOs at the UN and in global policy-making more broadly.
Introduction
Basic information about NGOs - definitions, analysis of their activities and diversity, discussions of their growing role in the international arena.
NGOs and International/Regional Institutions
The changing role of NGOs within international organizations, including the United Nations, the Bretton Woods Institutions and the WTO, with special emphasis on problems and prospects for NGOs at the UN.
NGOs and States
The interesting relationship between NGOs and states is linked to the more general problem of the current competition among States and non-State actors.
NGOs and Businesses
This section provides documents about the complex relationship between business and NGOs. Are NGOs able to influence business conduct? What kind of "partnership" is possible or even desirable?
Movement for Global Justice
NGOs play diverse roles in the movement for social and economic justice. This section also follows the movement against war and occupation and explores what lies ahead for the global peace movement.
NGOs in the Field
Operational NGOs such as CARE, Oxfam and others work in the field in humanitarian assistance and development. Performing their work, they face a whole range of problems - denial of access to those in need, demands for payoffs and corruption, political pressure from donors (individuals, companies and governments) and security threats to local personnel.
Advocacy Methods
NGOs pursue their advocacy goals through diverse means including networking, lobbying, conferences, use of the mass media, involvement in elections, and protests.
Major NGO Campaigns
The International Campaign to Ban Landmines exemplifies a successful NGO initiative. This page links to information on the Ban Landmines Campaign and other selected campaigns that are models for future advocacy efforts.
Credibility and Legitimacy of NGOs
Are NGOs the "conscience of humanity" as UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has said, or are they unrepresentative and meddling elites as some critics like to argue?
Funding for NGOs
NGOs finance their work through a variety of sources including membership dues, foundation and government grants, sales of services and business activities like credit cards, cruises and tee-shirt sales. How do funding sources influence NGO policy choices and public credibility?
Tables and Charts
This page provides tables and charts on NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC by category and region.
Links and Resources
Links to NGO-related web sites and bibliography of books and articles.
Bibliography
Lists books on NGOs.
