Untitled Flashcard Set

What is the UN's definition of NGOs?

Any internal organization which isn’t established by inter-government agreement.

What are the constraints on NGOs?

NGOs can't be profit making, can't advocate violence, and any human rights concerns must be general.

How does the judicial approach define NGOs?

It examines whether NGOs have legal status by the country or the UN.

What is the sociological approach to NGOs?

It examines the societal roles and functions that NGOs have in the international arena.

What does Martin state about NGO funding?

NGOs can receive governmental funding but must remain structurally independent from the government.

What are the essential characteristics of NGOs according to the professor?

Private, voluntary, nonprofit organizations pursuing the common good.

What is the distinction between TANs and TSMs?

TANs (Transnational Advocacy Networks) are groups working together across borders on shared issues, while TSMs (Transnational Social Movements) involve socially mobilized groups in sustained interactions with power holders.

What defines a transnational social movement?

A socially mobilized group engaging in sustained contentious interaction with power holders across borders.

What is the a term used for government-created NGOs?

GONGOs, or government NGOs.

What do Bratton's observations comment on the relationship between political regimes and NGOs?

Authoritarian regimes can have unique relations with human rights NGOs, but multiparty systems tend to be more favorable to NGOs.

What are the benefits of cooperation between NGOs and governments?

Collaboration on projects, legitimacy, and enhanced access to communities.

What are some threats that NGOs perceive from governments?

Self-censorship, loss of independence, and the potential for violence.

What do the terms 'cooperation, co-optation, complementary, and confrontation' signify in regards to NGO-state relations?

Different forms of interaction based on similarities or differences in goals and strategies.

What does the term 'isomorphism' refer to in the context of NGOs?

The process through which organizations begin to resemble each other due to shared pressures.

What are the consequences of foreign aid dependence for NGOs?

It can lead to a lack of independence, loss of legitimacy, short-term focus, and accountability issues.

What does the principal-agent problem entail in NGO governance?

It addresses the misalignment of interests between donors (principals) and NGOs (agents) tasked with implementing programs.

What are two factors affecting cooperation among NGOs identified by Murray?

Trust and opportunity.

What are the characteristics and focus of the 'Welfare, Development, and Advocacy' orientations of NGOs?

Welfare focuses on immediate aid, Development aims for long-term capacity building, and Advocacy influences policy and public awareness.

What is meant by the 'Boomerang Pattern' in transnational advocacy?

A domestic NGO reaches out to foreign NGOs to leverage pressure on their own government.

What challenges do NGOs face regarding donor relationships?

Pressure to show results quickly, potential loss of independence, and competition among NGOs.

What are mechanisms that governments use to limit threats from NGOs?

Legal restrictions, denial of registration, coordination requirements, and coercive actions.

What is the significance of public trust for NGOs in their operations?

High-quality governance creates trust and predictability, enabling NGOs to collaborate effectively.