International Institutions

Mohamed Rayen Mattoussi ( Ba/ibe)

Table of content:
1- international organizations
2- pros and cons
3- my opinion on the bias of involvement of ngos in international crises
4- conclusion
5- References
International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) are pivotal in the
worldwide arena, tackling a range of social, economic, and environmental
concerns. Operating autonomously from any government influence and
working on a global scale, these organizations aim to contribute positively
to communities across the globe. To comprehend the essence of INGOs, it
is essential to analyze their roles, the advantages they offer, and the
potential difficulties they may present.

What do International Non-Governmental Organizations

entail?

They are independent, non-profit entities that function internationally,

crossing national boundaries to tackle global issues and advance societal
progress. In contrast to governmental organizations, INGOs are not tied to
any particular government and operate autonomously. Their focus is on
combating poverty, advocating for human rights, delivering humanitarian
assistance, and addressing diverse concerns such as health, education, and
environmental sustainability.

Positive Aspects of International NGOs:

● Humanitarian Response:
During emergencies such as natural disasters, conflicts, and health crises,
INGOs frequently act as primary responders, delivering essential aid
promptly and effectively to those impacted. Their swift interventions not
only save lives but also alleviate suffering.
● International Cooperation:
INGOs facilitate collaboration and cooperation on a global scale. They
bring together resources, expertise, and diverse perspectives from various
regions to tackle intricate global challenges collectively.
● Advocacy for Human Rights:
Playing a pivotal role, INGOs advocate for human rights and social justice.
They draw attention to issues that might be overlooked, actively working
to hold governments and other entities accountable for their actions.
 ● Capacity Development:
Through investments in local organizations and communities, INGOs
contribute to the sustainable development of disadvantaged regions. They
empower local partners to independently address challenges and enhance
resilience.
● Innovation and Research:
INGOs often engage in research and pioneering solutions to confront
global issues. They contribute to the creation of new technologies,
methodologies, and approaches with a lasting impact on social and
environmental concerns.
● Global Solidarity Bridge:
Functioning as a link between different nations and cultures, INGOs foster
understanding and solidarity. They provide a platform for individuals and
communities to connect and collaborate towards a shared purpose.

Negative Aspects of International NGOs:

● Dependency Challenges:
Critics contend that INGOs may instill dependency in recipient nations by
providing extensive aid without fostering local self-sufficiency. This could
impede long-term development and perpetuate a reliance on external
assistance.
● Accountability Deficiencies:
As independent entities, INGOs may encounter difficulties in terms of
accountability. Some organizations have faced criticism for inadequate
transparency, fund mismanagement, or ineffective measurement of the
impact of their interventions.
● Cultural Insensitivity:
INGOs might face issues related to cultural insensitivity or a lack of
understanding of local contexts. This could result in the imposition of
solutions that do not align with the cultural or social norms of the
communities they aim to assist.
● Concerns about Political Neutrality:
Maintaining political neutrality can be a two-edged sword for INGOs.
While it allows them to function in diverse political environments, it may
also lead to accusations of not taking a stance on crucial issues or
inadvertently supporting oppressive regimes.
● Problems with Resource Allocation:
Competition for funding among INGOs can occasionally result in
inefficiencies and duplicated efforts. Moreover, funding priorities may be
influenced by donor interests rather than the actual needs of communities.
● Security Challenges:
INGOs operating in conflict zones or politically unstable areas may face
substantial security risks. This can impact their ability to deliver aid
effectively and jeopardize the safety of their staff.

The bias of involvement of ngos in international crises

Historically, the United Nations (UN) serves as the successor to the

League of Nations, an international organization created by the victorious
European powers after World War I. The League aimed to prevent another
devastating global conflict through collective security arrangements and
the organized distribution of colonial territories resulting from the Great
War. One of its most significant and enduring actions occurred in 1922
when the League legitimized the British occupation of Palestine by
granting the United Kingdom a mandate to govern the former Ottoman
territory. Acting upon London's recommendation and in alignment with the
1917 Balfour Declaration, the preamble of the Mandate directed Great
Britain to facilitate "the establishment in Palestine of a national home for
the Jewish people."
The UN could have rejected the British referral. As a Class A Mandate, the
independence of Palestine had already been provisionally recognized by
the League of Nations in 1922, and the UN could therefore have instructed
London to formalize this independence, as had already occurred with other
possessions in this category. Secondly, there is an argument to be made
that the UNGA exceeded its authority when, on 29 November 1947, it
adopted Resolution 181 recommending the partition of Palestine and the
establishment of a second, Jewish state within it.
To date, Israel has not been subject to a single punitive UNSC measure.
One need only compare the Council's record on Israel with that on Iraq
since 1990 – including authorization of a devastating war and the most
comprehensive sanctions regime ever devised – to realize how patently
absurd the charge of anti-Israel animus is. Whereas Iran has paid a price
for the nuclear weapons it never had, and North Korea is routinely
condemned and sanctioned for having acquired them, Israel's extensive,
covertly-developed nuclear arsenal has yet to be so much as remarked
upon by the UNSC.

Conclusion:

In summary, International NGOs fulfill a crucial function in confronting

worldwide challenges, providing urgent aid during crises, and contributing
to sustainable development efforts. Despite the manifold advantages they
bring, it is imperative to recognize and tackle potential drawbacks to
guarantee a positive and lasting impact. Achieving a harmonious
equilibrium between delivering aid and promoting local self-sufficiency,
enhancing transparency and accountability, and respecting cultural
intricacies are pivotal factors for ensuring the ongoing effectiveness of
International NGOs in an ever-evolving global landscape.

References:
- The United Nations and Palestine: Biased? By Mouin Rabbani
- "International Organization". National Geographic Society
- "Chapter I: Purposes and Principles". United Nations Charter.
United Nations.