Nongovernmental Organizations and Accountability in an Era of Global Anxiety

In: Seton Hall Journal of Diplomacy and International Relations, Band 5, Heft 2, S. 67-78

Abstract

Considers the post-September 11 (2001) shift in the approach to public benefit nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in terms of accountability. The role of NGOs is reviewed before describing public benefit NGOs & their underpinning values. It is contended that NGO values may not accord with the values of its constituency & a focus on values can result in a moral hazard. In this light, attention turns to the various accountabilities that NGOs have to respond to. It is argued that the lack of formal downward accountability mechanisms requires that a voluntary reversal of the power relationship between NGOs & their constituencies is necessary to maintain the legitimacy of NGO work. J. Zendejas