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POLS 4331 - International Organizations

Locating information on Non-governmental Organizations

 As is indicated by the category name, Non-Governmental Organizations do not involve governments of specific nations.  They are international in terms of cooperation but membership is made up of individuals and sometimes nonprofit organizations in multiple nations, working together to address concerns around the globe. Examples of the many NGOs include Doctors Without Borders and Amnesty International.

 Locating organizations of this nature can be done through publications like The Yearbook of International Organizations, published by Union of International Associations.   Basic information can be obtained from the entry in the yearbook and additional details might be found on the organization website.

 

The NGO Branch of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs  is the focal point within the UN Secretariat for non-governmental organizations in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and for NGOs seeking status.