The Evolving of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): A Comparison Between International and Malaysia on Humanitarian Aid for Refugees

Atika Shafinaz Nazri; Kartini Aboo Talib@Khalid

The Evolving of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): A Comparison Between International and Malaysia on Humanitarian Aid for Refugees

Atika Shafinaz Nazri, Kartini Aboo Talib@Khalid

Abstract

Historically, NGOs addressing refugee issues have focused primarily on meeting immediate needs like food, water, and shelter. However, as refugee populations grow and face increasingly complex challenges, NGOs are now required to adopt a more holistic approach to humanitarian aid. This shift prompts the question: to what extent can NGOs evolve their roles to meet these expanding demands? This conceptual study examines the historical evolution of NGOs in the humanitarian sector, focusing on how their roles have expanded beyond fulfilling refugees' basic needs to offering more comprehensive support. This historical perspective highlights that while NGOs initially prioritized basic survival needs, they now address a broader spectrum of challenges, such as trauma recovery, community rebuilding, and sustainable livelihood development. We conclude that to meet the demands of modern refugee aid, NGOs must adopt a more holistic, flexible approach, fostering collaborations with governments and the private sector. This expanded role reflects the growing complexity of refugee issues and underscores the need for NGOs to reimagine their strategies within an increasingly interconnected humanitarian landscape.

Keywords

Humanitarian Aid; NGOs; Refugees; Refugees in Malaysia; Evolution

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