NGO Accountability

Politics, Principles and Innovations

Lisa Jordan editor Peter van Tuijl editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:1st Oct '06

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NGO Accountability cover

This insightful book provides a thorough exploration of NGO accountability, addressing key issues, challenges, and innovative solutions in the sector.

In the contemporary landscape of civil society, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) represent the fastest-growing segment, significantly influencing global political discourse. However, they face increasing scrutiny over claims of being 'unaccountable.' NGO Accountability delves into the complexities surrounding this issue, exploring who these organizations truly represent and the expectations of accountability that society places upon them. This comprehensive examination addresses the pressing questions of accountability within various sectors and on an international scale.

The book not only highlights the challenges faced by NGOs but also evaluates the technical tools currently available to enhance accountability. Among these tools are legal frameworks, certification processes, and donor-based accountability regimes. NGO Accountability critically assesses whether these options are effective solutions or merely attempts to restrict NGOs to a more traditional role focused solely on charity. Through insightful case studies from diverse organizations like ActionAid and examples from countries such as China, Indonesia, and Uganda, the book provides a global perspective on the accountability landscape.

In pursuit of greater transparency and responsibility, NGO Accountability explores innovative practices emerging from within NGOs themselves. It presents new methodologies and adaptable frameworks that can facilitate genuine accountability for all stakeholders involved. By fostering an environment where accountability is not just a concept but a reality, this book aims to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the role and responsibilities of NGOs in today's world.

'Credible and effective accountability is quite simply a pre-condition for NGOs' continued historical significance as global and local agents of change. Prepared by informed and yet critical insiders, this book faces this reality unflinchingly whilst illuminating its real-life complexities and implications in today's daunting political context.'
Simon Zadek, Chief Executive, AccountAbility, and author of The Civil Corporation

'This collection breaks out of the straitjacketed thinking that characterizes much of the accountability discussion today. Rather than treating NGO accountability as a technocratic endeavour based in managerial best practice, the authors confront its political and power-laden underpinnings head-on. Jordan and van Tuijl show us the dark side of accountability politics - how its language and mechanisms can be abused for suppressing basic rights of voice and political participation. Yet, they also give us a vision, grounded in field-based innovation, of what accountability can be: a pathway towards universal human rights and better democratic governance.'
Alnoor Ebrahim, Visiting Associate Professor, Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations, Harvard University, and Wyss Visiting Scholar, Harvard Business School

ISBN: 9781844073689

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 540g

272 pages