Final answer:
According to Brockington, NGOs and neoliberalism share a symbiotic relationship, where NGOs can either support or find themselves at odds with neoliberal policies. NGOs have had to navigate the expectations of Western donors influenced by neoliberal thought, sometimes focusing on market-friendly projects or neglecting systemic problems due to funding pressures.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Brockington, the relationship between the growth of NGOs and neoliberalism is characterized by a symbiotic connection. NGOs and neoliberalism share a symbiotic relationship where they can occasionally support neoliberal policies by implementing market-friendly projects and fostering particular forms of economic development. However, they may also find themselves at odds with it when their humanitarian aims conflict with the harsh economic and political realities imposed by global neoliberal agendas.
NGOs have come to play a significant role in global governance by influencing policy, drawing international attention to critical issues, and providing aid in times of crisis. Their growth can be attributed to the increasing influence of neoliberal policies, which often prioritize privatization and reduced government spending, potentially creating space for NGOs to step in and address issues traditionally handled by the state. Simultaneously, NGOs often rely on Western donors and thus must navigate the expectations and priorities set forth by these neoliberal institutions, while striving to maintain their own objectives.
Additionally, some critics argue that the reliance on Western funding and the need to tailor their efforts to the demands of donors may lead NGOs to neglect more systemic problems in favor of more fundable projects. This can create a cycle where NGOs may inadvertently perpetuate certain aspects of neoliberalism, rather than challenging its underlying principles.