Center for War Studies University of Southern Denmark 15 June 2015 June 2015 1 Introduction Research project on a potentially overlooked problem regarding the social positionstatus NGOs Big argument ID: 661640
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Can We Trust NGOs?
Dr. Vincent Charles KeatingCenter for War StudiesUniversity of Southern Denmark15 June 2015
June 2015
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Introduction
Research project on a potentially overlooked problem regarding the social position/status NGOsBig argument
Trust and legitimacy are two independent phenomena, both important to NGOsTrust is a reasonably underdeveloped idea within the field of NGO studiesCertain attempts at gaining legitimacy might undermine
trust – we should be aware of potential tradeoffs
June 2015
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Legitimacy
Based on three factorsConformity to rulesCorrespondence with social norms
Existence of expressed consentGives NGOs the ability to have power through exclusive rightful membershipPower to speak on certain issues
Power to be recognized as representing a certain populationEssential to NGOs as there are (generally) very few other basis of power
June 2015
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Trust and Trustworthiness
Expectation that contracts or social obligations will be fulfilledCombination ofKnowledge of ability to fulfil roleExpectation that agent will not defect
Different from normal expectations in generation of betrayalAlarm clock versus not keeping a promiseCan be based on
Previous iterative experiencePersonal propensity to see others as trustworthySocial expectations of trustworthiness
June 2015
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Trust and Trustworthiness
Importance of trust – simplifies social lifeAt extreme certain risks are perceived to be zeroProblem of mistrust: The cognitive risk of defection leads people to attempt to
minimise this riskResult: engagement of hedging strategiesStrategies where a cost is paid in the present that reduces the risk in the future
Trust is valuable because, where possible, it means actors do not engage in the cost of hedging
June 2015
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Interactions Between Trust and Legitimacy
Legitimacy Gained through legality and adherence to social rulesProvides social power
TrustworthinessGained through past experience and social norms of trustSimplifies social life and lessens/prevents hedging strategies
Not quite the same phenomenonLegitimacy allows NGOs to operate effectivelyTrustworthiness decreases costs, prevents donors from defecting and eases program implementation
June 2015
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Importance to NGOs
Does attempting to gain legitimacy (accidentally) erode trust?Legitimacy and the accountability agendaParticular type of argument that helps NGOs become legitimate through transparency measures
Problem: Is itself a hedge against defection indicating a lack of trustSends a social signal over whether NGOs are to be trusted or notDecay of social trust and general increase in costs
June 2015
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Solutions?
Focus of research in the next yearChart out the ways in which trust benefits NGOsRethink the implications of the accountability agendaRecognition of potential costs: Still worthwhile given these?
Compare alternative legitimacy mechanisms and their effect on trustworthiness
June 2015
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