Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Christopher B. Jones

Abstract

Global governance refers to global cooperation through existing and developing structures, groups, and initiatives, yet little academic research focuses on the role of international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) in promoting global governance. Using Benet's polarities of democracy as the theoretical foundation, the purpose of this critical case study was to explore why and how INGOs address the gap in global governance institutions in terms of humanitarian support. Data collection involved open-ended interviews with 12 members of an international, nonprofit service organization that provides humanitarian support services to a global community. Interview data were inductively coded and subjected to a thematic analysis procedure. Findings revealed 4 key themes: INGOs fill the global governance institutional gap because members think it is the right thing to do and they want to help their fellow human beings; effective global governance starts locally and simply; global governance remains conceptual; but polarities of democracy show promise as a possible global governance policy guide. Findings may be used to promote INGO participation in the provision of global humanitarian support and to improve global cooperation in addressing problems, such as mass migration, pandemics, and climate change. All of humanity, particularly those in poverty and distress, stand to benefit from effective global governance.

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