Bridging the legitimacy gap – why INGOs should have clarity in their legal status as international actors

Over the past few decades, INGOs have become influential actors in international politics, gaining privileged access to international debates and policy processes. They are by and large accepted by major states and main multilateral and bilateral organisations as de facto legitimate actors within the international system. Though their role and purpose can vary widely from emergency relief to long-term development aid, INGOs can typically be found where the state is perceived to fall short, either in its policies or actions.