The massive expansion of the NGO sector around the world since the 1980s is widely recognised. At the same time, the emergence of neoliberalism has directed the shift from public to private sector-led development, including the 'privatisation' of aid. NGOs have been a vital part of this shift, with increasingly significant roles in mainstream development processes and increased access to state funds. The rise of NGOs into a veritable global industry has been matched by a diversification in the types of roles NGOs play in society. In addition to delivering relief and promoting social and economic development, NGOs have increasingly taken part in broader governance, democratisation and peacebuilding efforts.Along with the expansion of the NGO sector, there has been growing interest in both the material and ideological roles of NGOs, including their independence from states, their concrete impact on poverty and inequality and their capacity to bring about social change. This is reflected in more than two decades of mounting critical literature on NGOs and the experiences of those associated with NGOs around the world. Alternatives to NGOs, in response to the destructive effects of neoliberalism, have taken diverse forms, including social movements and left-wing political parties.This course provides an introduction to the study of NGOs and their impact in a world of crisis, war and protest. It analyses the role of NGOs in the context of the increasing prominence of social movements around the world and explores the extent to which NGOs work for and on behalf of beneficiaries on the one hand and states on the other. It examines both the theoretical basis for NGO strategies for social change as well as their practical implications, and specifically considers the role of NGOs in humanitarian interventions. Finally, drawing on a number of case studies, the course explores what kind of development and change is possible
Period30-06-2014 - 18-07-2014 (3 weeks)
Target groupStudents in further education.
Course aimOn successful completion of the course, a student should be able to demonstrate: A critical understanding of the key theoretical debates on NGOs, including an understanding of the various roles both international and national NGOs play in processes of development and social change. An understanding of the relationships between NGOs and a range of other development actors, and knowledge of how these relationships have evolved. A capacity to identify, understand and critique a range of theoretical approaches for understanding contemporary development NGOs and apply these approaches to practical case studies of NGOs.
Credits7.5 ECTS creditsStudents are usually able to obtain credits from their home institution and generally our courses receive 3 credits in the US system and 7.5 ECTS in the European system. However the summer courses remain non-accredited by SOAS. If you intend to claim credits from your home institution, please check the requirements with them before you enrol.
Course feeGBP 1250[Convert to USD]Tuition fees.GBP 800[Convert to USD]Accommodation fees.-
Course leaderFeyzi Ismail and Subir Sinha
Scholarships-
SOAS, University of London EnterpriseAddress: Thornhaugh Street London
Postal code: WC1H 0XG
City: London
Country: United Kingdom
Website: http://www.soas.ac.uk/summerschool/ug/
E-mail: summerschool@soas.ac.uk
Phone: +44 0207 898 4205
