Vigilantes beyond Borders: NGOs as Enforcers of International Law

How and why NGOs are increasingly taking independent and direct action in global law enforcement, from human rights to the environment

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have generally served as advocates and service providers, leaving enforcement to states. Now, NGOs are increasingly acting as private police, prosecutors, and intelligence agencies in enforcing international law. NGOs today can be found investigating and gathering evidence; suing and prosecuting governments, companies, an...