Reframing NGOs

The Identity of an International Relations Non-Starter

Bibliographic Data

ID6060429
AuthorsNorbert Götz (0000-0002-8788-101X, University of Helsinki, corresponding author)
Year2008
Volume14
Issue2
Pages231-258
Publication date2008-06-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueEuropean Journal of International Relations (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1354-0661 • E-ISSN: 1460-3713
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/1354066108089242
OpenAlexW2136069404
LanguageEN
Citations received14
References cited43

In this article I aim to provide a better understanding of the concept `non-governmental organization' and its implications for the politics of international relations. As the prevailing confusion about the term stems largely from poor knowledge about the politics behind its introduction and function, the overarching question asks how NGOs have been socially constructed as actors on the margins of the international stage. To this end, a sound insight into the little-known conceptual history and background of the term `NGO' in what might be called a `Westphalian nomenclature' is given. I suggest that the still prevalent NGO terminology is an outcome of political games played by various actors, restricting and containing the signified organizations. The article provides a non-substantial, functional and politics-oriented definition of the term NGO, which differs significantly from previous attempts to attach meaning to it. It also suggests improved choices of terminology for general International Relations theorizing

Cognitive reframing · Confusion · Economics · Environmental ethics · Epistemology · International relations · Political science · Politics · Positive economics · Sociology · Terminology · International Development and Aid · Law · Peacebuilding and International Security · Political Conflict and Governance · Psychology · Social Psychology

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