Conclusions

Abstract

In recent decades, advocacy by national and international NGOs and other civil society organizations that challenges accepted views, provides alternative perspectives and promotes the voices of the politically excluded, has become an accepted part of the political scene. Environmental groups have pushed for recognition of global warming, and to stop the policies and practices of companies, international institutions or governments that damage the natural environment. Human rights organizations and peace groups have pressured for enhanced regimes of arms control and conflict management. Women’s organizations have promoted increased gender sensitivity across the whole of global governance. Development NGOs have fought for relief from national debt, better policies by international financial institutions, fairer trade rules, improved food security, better health and educational services in the South, the rights of workers, children’s rights, humanitarian relief, the rights of refugees, and so on.