Long accustomed to occupying the moral high ground, NGOs are coming in for increasing criticism.
By Luke Hunt
In recent decades the ubiquitous NGO has taken up the banner for charities and worthy causes. From the environment and human rights to health, education and animal welfare, nongovernment organizations have championed the dispossessed, winning legions of fans.
But in recent years pockets of NGO Land – as some call it – have lost their shine.
Too militant, too strident, and too sanctimonious are among common complaints leveled at NGOs – whether in Australia or in Southeast Asia and beyond — amid allegations of blatant lying and a victory at any cost mentality.