Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Definition

NGOs are private sector, non-profit organizations that operate independently of any government. They are typically involved in humanitarian, educational, health care, public policy, social, human rights or environmental issues.

Analogy

Think of NGOs as the helpful neighbors in a community. Just like how neighbors might help each other out with tasks like gardening or babysitting without being part of the government or expecting profit, NGOs work to address various societal and global issues without being tied to any government and not for profit.

Related terms

Charity: A type of NGO focused on providing aid and donations to those in need.

Civil Society: The collective space occupied by voluntary associations outside of the state and market sectors; NGOs are a key component of this.

Humanitarian Aid: Assistance given by organizations (often NGOs) to save lives and alleviate suffering during and after man-made crises and natural disasters.