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NGO Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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NGO

[ˌɛn dʒiː ˈoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

non-profit organization

An NGO, or non-governmental organization, is a non-profit group that operates independently of any government. NGOs are typically involved in humanitarian, environmental, or social causes.

Synonyms

charity, non-profit organization, voluntary organization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
NGO

Typically used in formal or professional settings to describe organizations that operate independently from government influence. It is a broad term that encompasses various kinds of organizations, including charities and advocacy groups.

  • The NGO works on improving education in rural areas.
  • She got a job with an international NGO focused on human rights.
non-profit organization

Commonly used in formal and legal contexts to describe organizations that do not distribute profits to owners or shareholders but reinvest any revenue into their mission. It is a legal designation.

  • The non-profit organization aims to preserve local wildlife.
  • She volunteers at a non-profit organization that offers free legal services.
charity

Best used when referring specifically to organizations that collect donations and provide aid or assistance to those in need. It often implies a focus on generosity and helping less fortunate individuals.

  • They established a charity to help homeless people in the city.
  • I donate to several charities that support children in need.
voluntary organization

Often used to emphasize the role of volunteers and the voluntary nature of participation in the organization's activities. It suggests an organization that relies heavily on volunteers rather than paid staff.

  • The voluntary organization is looking for new volunteers to help with their literacy programs.
  • As a member of a voluntary organization, he spends his weekends cleaning up parks.

Examples of usage

  • Many NGOs provide aid to developing countries in times of crisis.
  • The NGO focused on promoting education in rural communities.
  • She decided to volunteer at an NGO to help with wildlife conservation efforts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Global Influence

  • NGOs play a crucial role in humanitarian efforts, especially in providing aid during disasters and conflicts.
  • They often advocate for human rights, environmental sustainability, and social justice around the world.

Famous Examples

  • Organizations like Doctors Without Borders and Amnesty International are well-known NGOs that focus on health and human rights, respectively.
  • Greenpeace is an influential NGO that advocates for the protection of the environment and climate action.

Impact on Policy

  • NGOs often influence government policies and public opinion by conducting research and lobbying for change.
  • Various NGOs have played significant roles in international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Challenges

  • Many NGOs struggle with funding, often relying on donations and grants to support their initiatives.
  • In some countries, NGOs face government restrictions that limit their operations and ability to function freely.

Origin of 'NGO'

Main points about word origin

  • The acronym 'NGO' stands for 'Non-Governmental Organization' and began to be widely used in the 1970s.
  • The concept of NGOs can be traced back to the establishment of the United Nations, which led to various groups forming to address global issues.

The term NGO, or non-governmental organization, originated in the United Nations Charter in 1945. NGOs have since become crucial players in global governance, advocating for various causes and providing assistance in areas where governments may fall short. NGOs have a long history of promoting social justice, environmental sustainability, and human rights.