Title: The strategic role of non-governmental organisations in international economic relations

Authors: Martin Dekleva

Addresses: The Constitutional Court of the Republic of Slovenia, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Abstract: The emergence of multi-dimensional non-governmental organisations (NGOs) manifests in various aspects of social life, including international economic relations. The impact of civil society on the economy at the international level cannot be overlooked. Non-governmental organisations are generally socially beneficial and can contribute to the democratisation of international institutions, as well as to policy formulation and decision-making at the international level. However, this influence has also some shortcomings and opens several important dilemmas. The paper discusses the strategic role of non-governmental organisations in economic relations between states from the point of view of two basic elements: policy making and implementation and legal procedures. The author concludes that different interests can be reconciled through legally framed and transparent activities between non-governmental organisations, states and non-state actors.

Keywords: non-governmental organisations; international relations; international economic relations; international trade; economic diplomacy; international law; role of non-governmental organisations; policy making.

DOI: 10.1504/IJDIPE.2026.150254

International Journal of Diplomacy and Economy, 2026 Vol.12 No.1, pp.93 - 105

Received: 08 Apr 2024
Accepted: 30 Jun 2024
Published online: 05 Dec 2025 *

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