Questiоn 4. Using the sоurces аnd yоur own knowledge, evаluаte the claim that NGOs are insignificant actors in global politics. After reading the sources, use this space to plan. Any notes or plan will reward you 5 points. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Source A Adapted from “Singapore rapped over protest ban”, BBC News, 2006. The World Bank president has criticized Singapore for banning accredited activists from its annual general meeting in the country. Singapore authorities have blocked the 19 civil society representatives from attending the event amid claims that they pose a security risk. The president told BBC World he hoped Singapore would reconsider its stance. On the agenda for next week’s World Bank annual general meeting are plans to tackle corruption and reform of the bank’s voting structure. The president said Singapore had made a “bad” decision when it blocked activists that had been invited to the event. “I hope Singapore’s authorities will change their minds and allow the people in that we have accredited as originally agreed,” he added. He added that it was important for the organization to hold a “strong dialogue” with such groups. “We may not always agree with what they have to say, but it is very important to have that discussion.” The comments followed Singapore’s refusal to lift a ban on public protests. Following the ban, pressure groups and non-governmental organizations decided they would demonstrate on Batam Island instead – an Indonesian island located close to Singapore by boat. But now Indonesian police have decided to ban international NGOs from protesting there as well, saying the demonstrations could become violent and act as a deterrent to tourists. Source B Adapted from Global Politics by Andrew Heywood, Palgrave Macmillan, 2011. Although lacking the economic influence that transnational corporations (TNCs) can exert, advocacy NGOs have proved highly skilled at mobilizing “soft” power and popular pressure. In this respect they have a number of advantages. Leading NGOs have developed high public profiles, often linked to public protests and demonstrations that attract eager media attention. Their typically altruistic and humanitarian objectives enable them to mobilize public support and apply moral pressure in a way that conventional politicians and political parties struggle to rival. On a wide range of issues the views of NGOs are taken to be both authoritative and impartial, based on the use of specialists and academics. Source C A table of information about six well-known NGOs. Source D: Extract from “Strengthening Civil Society” from the Aga Khan Development Network website. The Aga Khan Development Network is a non-governmental organization which works to support development and address poverty in over 30 countries around the world. It has become clear to many governments that successful states require more than the introduction of democratic elections and political parties. Civil society, particularly indigenous NGOs, must play a central role in promoting good governance and accountability. But to be effective, NGOs must be well-run and well-governed themselves. They must operate under a code of ethics and governance that stresses accountability so that resources are not wasted. They must also have a quantifiable impact on development challenges, as measured against well-recognized indicators, such as infant and maternal mortality, literacy and the reduction in the incidence of disease. Increasing community participation is also vital to progress. Question 4. Using the sources and your own knowledge, evaluate the claim that NGOs are insignificant actors in global politics. Markband: 1-7 Total Points: Q4: 12 Points After reading the sources, use this space to plan.