A MODEL AND TYPOLOGY OF GOVERNMENT-NGO RELATIONSHIPS

This article develops a model and typology of government-nongovernment al organization (NGO) relationships to enable both a rapid appraisal o f government-NGO relationships in a particular context and to identify the characteristics and possible structure of alternative relationshi p types. Building on the literature on the subject, the model defines eight possible relationship types based on several dimensions: governm ent's resistance or acceptance of institutional pluralism, the relativ e balance of pouter in the relationship, and the degree of formality a nd-by extension-the level of government linkage. The model and typolog y are designed to assist governments, NGOs, donors, and other developm ent practitioners to identify and promote the most productive governme nt-NGO relationship for a particular context.