Non-Government Organisation (NGO)

Summary

An association based on the common interests of its members, individuals, or institutions. It has no government status or function and is not created by, nor is its agenda set or implemented by, a government.

Extended Definition

NGOs exist at the international, national and local level. Many of the larger NGOs are involved with aid and relief projects at an international level (eg Oxfam, Red Cross, World Vision etc.). Other NGOs work at the national or local community level helping community organisations, promoting education, in primary health care etc. Often NGOs work cooperatively with governments. (SIL International, LinguaLinks Library, Version 4.0, at 11 January 2005).