Chapter 10: When Aliens Land – Global Governance and International Cooperation

10.4: Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Global Governance 

When governments fail to act decisively, a different set of players often steps in to fill the void. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and transnational advocacy networks have become vital actors in global governance, addressing issues ranging from human rights abuses to climate change. Unlike states or intergovernmental organizations like the United Nations, NGOs operate independently, allowing them to focus on solutions without the political baggage of national interests. In Arrival, Louise Banks embodies this independent approach; while she works alongside a government team, her actions are guided by the broader goal of fostering understanding between humans and aliens. Much like an NGO operating in a politically charged environment, Louise navigates competing agendas to find a solution that benefits humanity as a whole. This reflects the crucial role NGOs play in prioritizing long-term outcomes over short-term political gains, whether in humanitarian crises or environmental advocacy. By examining the roles of NGOs, transnational advocacy networks, humanitarian aid, and global civil society, we can better understand how non-state actors contribute to solving global challenges.

Addressing the world’s most pressing problems often requires creative solutions from actors outside the state system. NGOs operate independently from governments, allowing them to focus on specific issues such as environmental protection, human rights, or disaster relief. In Arrival, Louise Banks can be seen as an independent agent, working outside traditional state structures to bridge communication gaps and resolve the alien crisis. Similarly, real-world NGOs like Greenpeace work to raise awareness about environmental issues, often pressuring governments and corporations to adopt sustainable practices. Greenpeace’s campaigns against deforestation in the Amazon or plastic pollution in the oceans have highlighted environmental issues that might otherwise go unaddressed. Human Rights Watch is another example, documenting violations and lobbying for accountability, even when governments hesitate to act. In Arrival, Louise’s independence enables her to focus on the greater good, avoiding the nationalistic tendencies of governments that nearly lead to war. NGOs also play a critical role in providing direct aid, as seen with organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), which delivers medical care in conflict zones where states cannot or will not operate. These organizations often act as the moral conscience of the international system, pushing for action where others may prioritize politics. However, NGOs rarely work in isolation, instead forming part of broader networks that amplify their efforts and expand their reach.

Collaboration is the key to achieving large-scale change, and transnational advocacy networks embody this principle. These networks bring together activists, organizations, academics, and private citizens across borders to address global issues and advocate for social change. In Arrival, the global scientific community initially collaborates to decipher the aliens’ language, reflecting how advocacy networks pool resources and knowledge to tackle shared challenges. For instance, the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, a network of NGOs, played a pivotal role in the creation of the Mine Ban Treaty of 1997, which outlawed the use of landmines worldwide. Similarly, the global push for climate action has been driven by networks like Climate Action Network International, which unites NGOs to lobby governments and educate the public about the urgency of reducing emissions. In the film, the collapse of international collaboration after a misinterpretation of the aliens’ message mirrors the risks advocacy networks face when trust and communication break down. This dynamic underscores the importance of fostering transparency and cooperation to achieve advocacy goals. When these networks succeed, they often channel their efforts into direct initiatives like humanitarian aid, addressing immediate needs while promoting broader change.

In times of crisis, when lives are at stake, humanitarian aid can make the difference between survival and disaster. NGOs and international organizations play a crucial role in delivering this aid, whether responding to natural disasters, armed conflict, or disease outbreaks. In Arrival, the alien landings spark global panic, much like a humanitarian crisis where immediate action is required to save lives and prevent escalation. While the film focuses on communication as the key to resolving the crisis, it highlights the chaos and vulnerability that can arise in emergencies, which humanitarian organizations are often tasked with addressing. Real-world examples include the response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake, where NGOs like the Red Cross and Oxfam delivered food, water, and medical care to millions of displaced people. Humanitarian aid also plays a vital role in conflict zones, such as in Syria, where organizations have worked to provide relief despite immense logistical and political obstacles. In Arrival, Louise’s success in decoding the aliens’ language can be seen as a metaphor for the precision and urgency required in humanitarian efforts to address crises. These efforts are part of a broader ecosystem of global civil society, which connects diverse actors to promote long-term stability and security.

Global civil society refers to the interconnected web of NGOs, advocacy networks, and activists working across borders to influence policy and promote human security. This informal yet powerful network represents the voices of individuals and groups often excluded from formal state or intergovernmental processes. In Arrival, Louise Banks’ role as a mediator and problem-solver can be likened to the work of global civil society, as she focuses on fostering understanding and cooperation rather than pursuing narrow national interests. Real-world examples include the climate justice movement, where NGOs like 350.org and grassroots activists pressure governments to adopt ambitious climate policies, as seen in the Paris Climate Agreement. Global civil society also plays a role in holding powerful actors accountable, as evidenced by international campaigns against human trafficking and corporate exploitation. In the film, Louise’s ability to operate outside the constraints of state interests shows how independent actors can challenge established power dynamics and reshape the global response to crises. However, the effectiveness of global civil society often depends on its ability to coordinate efforts and navigate the complexities of international politics. By connecting people, ideas, and resources across borders, global civil society represents the potential for collective action to address humanity’s most pressing challenges.

Non-governmental organizations and their networks demonstrate the power of non-state actors in shaping global governance. From the independent advocacy of NGOs to the collective efforts of transnational advocacy networks, these actors bring creativity, passion, and focus to problems that governments often struggle to solve. In times of crisis, their ability to provide humanitarian aid and mobilize global civil society highlights their essential role in fostering human security and development. As Arrival shows, solving complex global problems requires not only the involvement of states but also the voices and actions of diverse, independent actors working toward a common goal. Through their efforts, NGOs and related networks exemplify the potential of collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world.