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Theorizing the relationship between NGOs and the state in medical humanitarian development projects

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  • Asad, Asad L.
  • Kay, Tamara

Abstract

Social scientists have fiercely debated the relationship between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the state in NGO-led development projects. However, this research often carries an implicit, and often explicit, anti-state bias, suggesting that when NGOs collaborate with states, they cease to be a progressive force. This literature thus fails to recognize the state as a complex, heterogeneous, and fragmented entity. In particular, the unique political context within which an NGO operates is likely to influence how it carries out its work. In this article, we ask: how do NGOs work and build relationships with different types of states and – of particular relevance to practitioners – what kinds of relationship building lead to more successful development outcomes on the ground? Drawing on 29 in-depth interviews with members of Partners in Health and Oxfam America conducted between September 2010 and February 2014, we argue that NGOs and their medical humanitarian projects are more likely to succeed when they adjust how they interact with different types of states through processes of interest harmonization and negotiation. We offer a theoretical model for understanding how these processes occur across organizational fields. Specifically, we utilize field overlap theory to illuminate how successful outcomes depend on NGOs' ability to leverage resources – alliances and networks; political, financial, and cultural resources; and frames – across state and non-state fields. By identifying how NGOs can increase the likelihood of project success, our research should be of interest to activists, practitioners, and scholars.

Suggested Citation

  • Asad, Asad L. & Kay, Tamara, 2014. "Theorizing the relationship between NGOs and the state in medical humanitarian development projects," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 120(C), pages 325-333.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:120:y:2014:i:c:p:325-333
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.04.045
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. David Forkuor & Andrews Korah, 2023. "NGOs and sustainable rural development: experience from Upper West Region of Ghana," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 25(1), pages 351-374, January.
    2. Asad, Asad L. & Kay, Tamara, 2015. "Toward a multidimensional understanding of culture for health interventions," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 144(C), pages 79-87.

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