20 Important Reasons Why NGOs Are Necessary in Our Society

Why NGOs are necessary in our society is because in the dynamic and interconnected world of today, they play a pivotal role in addressing societal challenges and fostering progress where governmental efforts might fall short.

NGOs, who work toward public or social welfare goals are usually driven by a diverse range of missions. They are fueled by the passion of dedicated individuals and contribute to the betterment of societies on local and global scales. In this blogpost, we’ll analyze 20 important reasons why NGOs are necessary in our society. Come along!

20 Important Reasons Why NGOs Are Necessary in Our Society

1. They provide medical care: NGOs play a crucial role in providing medical care to societies, filling the gap where governmental healthcare systems fall short. They bring accessible healthcare services, preventive measures and medical support to those who lack adequate resources through their dedicated efforts.
2. They assist during outbreaks and pandemics: NGOs serve as rapid responders during outbreaks and pandemics, offering critical support in times of crisis. Their agility, expertise, and networks allow them swiftly mobilize resources, provide medical aid, and implement containment strategies. These helps to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases on the society’s most vulnerable populations.
3. They help provide clean water and sanitation: NGOs ensure access to clean water and sanitation, especially in underserved regions. NGOs implement vital water infrastructure, promote hygiene practices, and advocate for improved sanitation practices through their initiatives. They create sustainable solutions that enhance quality of life and also pave way for healthier and more resilient societies. They achieve this by partnering with local communities and governments.
4. They aid during natural disasters: NGOs are indispensable pillars of support during natural disasters, extending immediate aid and relief to affected communities. They provide essential resources, shelter, food and medical assistance through their swift response and well coordinated logistics.
5. They promote equality and fairness in the legal system: NGOs play a significant role in advancing equality and fairness within the legal system, advocating for marginalized and vulnerable groups. They work to ensure that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has equal access to legal representation. NGOs contribute significantly to a more just and equitable society.
6. They protect wildlife and biodiversity: NGOs serve as dedicated guardians of wildlife and biodiversity, working tirelessly to safeguard ecosystems for current and future generations. They play a good role in preserving diverse species and natural habitats through habitat preservation efforts, and wildlife rescue initiatives.
7. They fight against climate change: NGOs play an important role in the global fight against climate change, driving awareness, policy change, and sustainable practices. They contribute significantly to preserving our planet for present and future generations, by fostering a sense of urgency and accountability.
8. They help with economic development: NGOs empower individuals to create sustainable livelihoods through entrepreneurship support, vocational training, and micro finance programs. They are vital partners in fostering economic development, especially in marginalized communities. They have the ability to contribute to inclusive and balanced economic growth that benefits the society as a whole. They achieve this by addressing root causes of poverty, promoting fair trade, and advocating for equitable access to resources.
9. They help protect reproductive rights: NGOs champion the autonomy of individuals to make informed choices about their reproductive health through awareness campaigns, advocacy, and support. They contribute to a society where reproductive rights are respected and upheld by fighting against discrimination and promoting gender equity.
10. They protect children: NGOs stand as vigilant guardians of children’s rights, working tirelessly to protect their wellbeing, safety, and future prospects. They play an indispensable role in ensuring that every child grows up in an environment that nurtures their potential and safeguards their rights. They do this by creating safe spaces, advocating for legal reforms, and providing essential resources.
11. They provide education: NGOs are key contributors to education, working tirelessly to bridge gaps in access and quality. They contribute to the growth and development of both individuals and societies as a whole by breaking barriers to education.
12. They protect democracy: NGOs play a vital role in upholding and safeguarding democracy. This is by promoting civic engagement, advocating for transparency, and holding governments accountable. They contribute to the strength and vitality of democratic societies, where rights and freedoms are respected and protected.
13. They promote research: NGOs are essential drivers of research and innovation. They contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the development of solutions to pressing societal challenges. They contribute to a society that thrives on evidence-based solutions and continuous intellectual growth.
14. They improve government performance: NGOs play a pivotal role in improving governance performance by serving as independent monitors, advocates, and collaborators. Through their scrutiny, policy analysis, and constructive feedback, they hold governments accountable, encourage transparency, and contribute to more effective governance. NGOs contribute to a more accountable and efficient administration that works in the best interests of the society it serves. This happens by fostering a culture of collaboration and dialogue between civil society and government.
15. Sustainable development: NGOs are catalysts for sustainable development, driving positive change by addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. With their innovative approaches, they promote responsible resource management, equitable growth, and long term well being. They collaborate with diverse stakeholders and contribute to a future where prosperity is inclusive.
16. They ensure basic human needs are met: NGOs play a major role in ensuring that basic human needs are met for all members of society. Through their humanitarian efforts, and sustainable development projects, they address issues such as hunger, shelter, and lack of healthcare.
17. They break social stigmas: NGOs challenge societal norms and foster empathy. They create a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone is recognized for their inherent worth and potential. They serve as agents of change, working to dismantle stereotypes, prejudices, and stigmas that marginalize and discriminate against certain groups.
18. Creation of self-help groups: NGOs facilitate the creation of self-help groups, empowering individuals to pool their resources, skills, and knowledge for mutual benefit. They foster self reliance and entrepreneurship through capacity building programs, financial literacy training and community support.
19. Poverty alleviation: NGOs play a key role in poverty alleviation, implementing targeted programs that address the root causes of economic disadvantage. They empower individuals to break the cycle of poverty and create sustainable livelihoods, through vocational training, microfinance, and livelihood support. They contribute significantly to reducing disparities and building a more prosperous society for all by advocating for equitable policies.
20. Human rights activism: NGOs are champions of human rights activism, tirelessly advocating for the protection and fulfilment of fundamental rights and freedoms. Through awareness campaigns, legal advocacy, and awareness initiatives, they challenge oppression, discrimination, and injustice.

Up next, let’s discuss the guiding principles upon which NGOs are funded!

What are the principles of NGO?

1. Responsibility, Service and Public Mindedness: Core principles guiding NGOs encompass responsibility, service, and public-mindedness. Upholding responsibility as a priority; Treating public funds with utmost gravity; acknowledging that actions influence how NGOs are publicly perceived.
2. Cooperation beyond boundaries: An NGO should uphold ethical, cooperative relationships with other NGOs, seeking partnerships whenever feasible to advance the collective welfare.
3. Human Rights and Dignity: An NGO should acknowledge the inherent freedom and equality of all individuals. This includes demonstrating sensitivity to the moral beliefs, religion, customs, traditions, and culture of the communities it serves. Additionally, they should respect family integrity and foster support for family-centered lifestyles.
4. Religious Freedom: According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, NGOs should respect religious freedom. They should work to ensure that everyone can freely exercise their faith without fear of discrimination or persecution.
5. Transparency and Accountability: An NGO must exhibit transparency in all interactions with the government, public, donors, partners, beneficiaries, and other relevant stakeholders with the exception of personnel issues and confidential information.
6. Truthfulness and Legality: An NGO should provide accurate information, whether concerning its own initiatives and operations or when discussing individuals, organizations, projects, legislations.

What are the four main characteristics of NGOs?

NGOs are generally defined by 4 main characteristics: voluntary, non-partisan, non-profit and non-criminal

1. NGOs are voluntary: NGOs are fueled by the commitment and dedication of individuals who willingly contribute their time, expertise, and resources to work towards positive social change.
2. NGOs are non-partisan: NGOs operate independently from political affiliations, ensuring their actions and advocacy remain impartial. They are focused on addressing societal challenges for the greater good.
3. NGOs are non-profit: NGOs function with the primary goal of advancing social, environmental, or humanitarian causes. They reinvest any surplus funds into their missions rather than distribute profits to stakeholders.
4. NGOs are non-criminal: NGOs uphold ethical conduct, working within legal frameworks to address societal needs, promote positive change, and contribute to the betterment of communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the reasons for why NGOs are necessary in our society serve as an essential cornerstone in the foundation of our society’s progress. From championing human rights and protecting vulnerable populations to fostering environmental conservation, education, and sustainable development, NGOs play a pivotal role in addressing the complex challenges we face as a society.

Other Related Posts

• The Budding Health Threat in Nigeria
• Giving: Donation to Massey Children Hospital
• Malnutrition, an Aftermath of Covid-19