What is the role of NGOs in responding to international crises?
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain the role of non-governmental organisations in responding to international crises.
Key learning points
- NGOs are non-governmental organisations using varied strategies to address social, political and humanitarian issues.
- NGOs respond to crises by delivering aid and often work with global agencies like the WHO to save lives.
- The effectiveness of NGOs in crises depends on factors like funding, accountability and community reach.
Keywords
NGO - a non-profit, voluntary group that works locally, nationally, or internationally to achieve a specific aim; NGOs are independent from governments, but often work alongside them
Humanitarian assistance - providing help and support during emergencies such as natural disasters or conflicts
Social justice - a system where everyone has equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources, regardless of their background or identity
Common misconception
NGOs don’t get any government funding because they are non-governmental.
NGOs are independent of government control but can still receive government funding to help carry out important work.
Teacher tip
Be mindful that some case studies, like the conflict in Gaza or safeguarding issues with NGOs, involve sensitive and potentially distressing topics. Encourage a respectful, open classroom atmosphere and be prepared to support pupils who may find these discussions challenging.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which international organisation is responsible for maintaining international peace and security?
Q2.What do we call someone who has fled their country due to conflict or persecution?
Q3.Why do countries cooperate on international humanitarian issues?
Q4.What is the aim of international sanctions?
Q5.What type of aid is about providing food, water and shelter after a disaster?
Q6.Match the sentence starter to its end.
the ability of a state to influence others using force or coercion.
the ability to influence others through attraction and persuasion.
producing a desired or intended result.
public meeting or march protesting a specific issue.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the words to their definitions.
an organisation that operates independently of any government
providing aid in times of disaster or conflict
working to address issues of inequality and discrimination
Q2.Which of these is an NGO?
Q3.Which NGO delivered life saving polio vaccinations in Gaza in early 2025?
Q4.Can NGOs receive government funding?
Q5.Which of these is an example of why an NGO is effective?
Q6.Which of these is an example of why an NGO might be ineffective?
To help you plan your 11 citizenship lesson on: What is the role of NGOs in responding to international crises?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 citizenship lesson on: What is the role of NGOs in responding to international crises?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 citizenship lessons from the How does the international community respond to global humanitarian problems? unit, dive into the full secondary citizenship curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.