NGOs: The Carriers of Globalization?

    The presentation is divided into three parts, in which I will explore the following issues:

1. Globalization process: transformation of territory and territoriality;
2. NGOs as players in the transformation of territoriality;
3. Networks of CABs in Eastern Europe as an example of deterritorialization of social space.

    Globalization is a process of reshaping social space and individual perception of the world through transforming the notion of territoriality from state-restricted to transnational space. To continue this discussion, the distinction should be made between territory and territoriality. Territory represents physical space and location while territoriality suggests social space where human interactions occur. Until recently, both territory and territoriality were mostly organized following the logic of a state and controlled through political power derived from state's sovereignty. In the process of globalization territoriality expanded beyond the state borders, and deterritorialization of social life became very intensive.
    One of the ways the deterritoralization of social space expressed itself is rapid development of non-government organizations (NGOs) worldwide. NGOs are becoming noticeable players in the decision-making processes of the states at different stages of democratic transition. Development of communication technologies, one of globalization's key stimulants, undoubtedly contributed to the process by making "united" struggle against social exclusion across borders possible. This struggle took different forms. Some organizations became international and expanded their worldwide operations. Smaller organizations learned from experiences of their partners in other countries. From these interactions, they not only improved their local activities, but also developed international agenda to promote certain values and bring about changes.
    A relevant case study to show such a deterritorialization of social life is the organization of Citizen Advice Bureaux (CAB) in Eastern Europe, their work nationally and commitment to international cooperation. CAB is a concept of provision citizen with information and advice that was developed in Great Britain in response to the challenges of the post World War II recovery. The network of CABs in Britain became wide-spread, and grew into an influential National Association of CABs which provides citizens with tools to protect their rights as well as advocates for suggests legislation and policy changes. This idea of provision of impartial and free advice on citizens" rights traveled to Eastern Europe which was undergoing sociopolitical transformation in the 90s. A number of CABs were established on the basis of local NGOs in many Eastern European countries. Organizations from яroatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Lativa, Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Lithuania, and Great Britain declared their "commitment to set up a network of Central and Eastern European citizens information and advice organisations in order to cooperate, exchange information and good practice and experience in the provision of such services in the member countries". Such cooperation in social policy advocacy may be a unique opportunity for NGOs to use each others" resources to push their respective governments towards better social policies and human rights practices.
    Network of CABs in Europe is only one example of deterritorialization of social advocacy and its influencee on life of citizens of different states. Many others with diverse value frameworks and aspirations exist across borders and affect the course of national politics and international relations as a result and in the process of globalization.