The International Legal Status of International Non-Governmental Organizations: The Century-Long Normative Debate and Its Future Prospects

Authors

• Rephael Ben-Ari

Abstract

The legal status of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) remains unresolved despite their growing influence in global politics. Over the past century, various proposals and frameworks have attempted to define INGOs' legal personality and legitimacy, but these efforts have been criticized for being either overly simplistic or politically unattainable. The article argues that while INGOs wield significant power and legitimacy through lobbying, public mobilization, and operational activities, their lack of formal international legal personality leaves their position ambiguous. The analysis highlights the need for a systematic evaluation of past efforts to inform future attempts at establishing a coherent legal framework for INGOs.

Disciplines

Education Law | Human Rights Law | Law | Legal History

Recommended Citation

Rephael Ben-Ari, The International Legal Status of International Non-Governmental Organizations: The Century-Long Normative Debate and Its Future Prospects, 23 Cardozo J. Int'l & Comp. L. 1 (2014).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cjicl/vol23/iss1/3