Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are independent organizations that are not affiliated with or controlled by a government. They are typically created to address specific social, political, or economic issues and are often involved in advocacy, humanitarian aid, and development activities. NGOs can play an important role in shaping international events and influencing state behavior, and are increasingly recognized as significant actors in the global arena.

Source: Rosenau, J. N. (1997). Along the domestic-foreign frontier: exploring governance in a turbulent world. Cambridge University Press.