Marginalized Groups

NGOs often focus on marginalized groups such as women, children, refugees, minorities and people living in poverty. NGOs also serve as watchdogs over governments and corporations. They monitor policies and practices that affect the environment or human rights violations. They advocate for changes in laws or regulations that may be harmful to society or the environment. By doing so they hold governments accountable for their actions. Another important function of NGOs is to provide humanitarian aid during times of crisis such as natural disasters or conflicts. They offer emergency relief services such as food distribution, shelter provision and medical assistance which can help save lives.