Non-Governmental Organizations
A non-governmental organization (NGO) is a legally constituted organization created by private organizations or people
with no participation or representation of any government. In the cases in which NGOs are funded totally or partially by
governments, the NGO maintains its non-governmental status insofar as it excludes government representatives from membership
in the organization. The number of internationally operating NGOs is estimated at 40,000.
International non-governmental organizations have a history dating back to at least 1914, when there were 1083 NGOs. They were
especially important in the anti-slavery movement and the movement for women's suffrage, and reached a peak at the time of the
World Disarmament Conference. However, the phrase “non-governmental organization” only came into popular use with the establishment
of the United Nations Organization in 1945 with provisions in Article 71 of Chapter 10 of the United Nations Charter for a
consultative role for organizations which are neither governments nor member states. The definition of “international NGO” is first
given in a resolution on February 27, 1950: it is defined as “any international organization that is not founded by an international
treaty.” The vital role of NGOs and other major groups in sustainable development was recognized in Chapter 27[7] of Agenda 21,
leading to intense arrangements for a consultative relationship between the United Nations and non-governmental organizations.
Non-Governmental Organizations at HMCE
Delegates in this committee will simulate representatives of four prominent international non-governmental organizations
(NGOs): the Red Cross, Amnesty International, Greenpeace, and Oxfam International. As representatives of these groups,
delegates will be called upon to provide testimony to different committees — both American and international — that seek their
input on the topics before them. Delegates will be discussing a wide range of topics reflecting the perspective of their
respective group and will work closely with delegates in other committees to provide their expertise and help build consensus.
For more details, see the 2010 Guide to NGOs.
2010 Staff and Topics
Committee Co-Chair:
Mady Boyd
Committee Co-Chair:
Roxy Wacyk
Topic 1:
Amnesty International (
Update)
Topic 2:
Greenpeace International (
Update)
Topic 3:
Center for American Progress
Topic 4:
The Heritage Foundation
Committee message board:
http://hmce.activeboard.com
Relevant Links
The links below will help you understand the four NGOs represented at HMCE and the issues they promote in the global community.
Red Cross:
Amnesty International:
Greenpeace International:
Oxfam International: