What are the main features of an NGO?

what-are-the-main-features-of-an-ngo?

NGOs are diverse entities and their features are mostly shaped by the socio-economic, cultural, political and legal situation of a country. However, generally speaking, we can list out the following features that are common among NGOs in most of the countries around the world.

  • Non-Profit in functioning: An NGO is not meant for making profit for personal gain. In case a NGO conducts some revenue generating activity, the profit earned should not be distributed amongst the board members, instead it should be used for expanding NGO activities further.
  • Values: An NGO should address a social, cultural, economic or political cause and should work towards public good. 
  • Voluntary: NGOs are voluntary associations. They have been formed by a group of like-minded volunteers who have come together to address a common issue. 
  • Legally registered: Although there may be unregistered NGOs working for a cause, it is mandatory in most countries to get an NGO legally registered. Besides, only legally registered NGOs can access formal donations.
  • Non-criminal: NGOs do not indulge in anti-social and criminal activities.