Non-Governmental Organizations: An Indispensable Player of Humanitarian Aid

Although the humanitarian landscape is constantly evolving, one factor which stands
out among the players of aid, and particularly non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), is the significance of the private, not-for-profit dimension. After tracing the
historical origin of those organizations, defining them and stressing how well known
and well regarded they are, the article goes on to discuss the main questions they set. It
points out that although each one has its own specific characteristics, their operating
methods have much in common. In conclusion the role NGOs play on the
international stage is also mentioned, as well as their position regarding UN plans to
overhaul the international humanitarian system. Faced with a transnational
environment and a growing demand for accountability both to beneficiaries and to
sponsors, with uncertain times ahead and difficult choices to make, NGOs must be
even more humanitarian in the approach they take.