IGOs, NGOs, MNCs, and International Law

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Table of Contents

Introduction
Intergovernmental Organisations: Binding Nations
Non-government Organisations: Empowering the Private Sector
Multinational Corporations: Fuelling the Global Economy
International law: The Fundamental Statute
Analysis and Discussion
Nuclear Proliferation
Conclusion
Bibliography

Introduction

The world has become closely linked through the years. Despite cultural and geographical differences, nations have learned to establish relationships. Some of these bonds have been strengthened by time and enriched by tradition. The current structures that govern most states are attributed to several aspects. Conflicts are the fundamental catalyst that created these structures. There are indications that institutions were created to promote political, economic, and social balance (Love, 2007). These institutions are vital components of society. In addition, the statutes that guide these organizations form the most important developments that have happened during the past century. These ideas make up the most important developments that will attempt to maintain peace and harmony in the world.

The basic parts of the state include the government, the people, the sovereign identity, and some set of laws. Jentleson (2007) points out that these have been strengthened by various experiences within states and with other countries. But nations have become stronger because of several institutions. These organizations are vital in addressing some issues that continue to affect regions. Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), multinational corporations (MNCs), and non-government organizations (NGOs) are some of the prominent institutions. The existence of these organizations is governed by guidelines commonly known as international law.

Intergovernmental Organisations: Binding Nations

Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) are created to promote the common welfare of the people. The members are usually sovereign states and assume goals that have a wide scope. Aside from broad aims, some IGOs are created to accomplish specific tasks (Claude, 1959). IGOs are formed through charters, treaties, and conventions. Member states must arrive at a certain agreement before creating the organization. Some organizations follow different criteria for membership. The most common include geographical proximity, economic status, and political principles. But it is important to underline the importance of sovereignty and state welfare when these contradict the IGO charter.

States need to accept the political significance of IGOs. Once IGOs are recognized, then relationships between other IGOs needed to be formed. NGOs and governments have to work closely instead of creating barriers. The legitimacy of IGOs is further established when government provides a clear role for these organizations. One of the most vital aspects of IGOs is that it brings political communication (Jentleson, 2007). It serves as the bridge that connects states and also closes the gaps when nations have disagreements. Moreover, IGOs act as the most immediate source of financial aid and political support.

IGOs are influential in the political decisions that states make. Some countries develop their political systems about these IGOs. Ideally, IGOs have to be the model of efficiency and stability. According to Keohane and Nye (1972), it is unimaginable for these IGOs to negatively affect the existence of a member state. Although there were some occurrences of political intervention, IGOs have remained positive catalysts for states. This reality is proven by the influx of IGOs and the expansion of others that exist. Moreover, IGOs remain vital in serving as role models in promoting growth and development.

Non-government Organisations: Empowering the Private Sector

Non-government organizations (NGOs) are institutions created by the private sector. Most NGOs were formed because of certain historical events. Like IGOs, NGOs have missions and visions to accomplish. Goals are being set to justify the existence of NGOs. Unlike its government counterpart, an NGO has more defined goals to fulfill. In addition, its creation only requires documents approved by the government (Rodney and Biersteker, 2003). Classifications of NGOs vary in their purpose and scope. But it is common for NGOs to design and implement development projects. Another critical role of NGOs is to provide relief aid for affected areas. This is obvious when depressed areas are hit by disasters. Other NGOs exist because they promote certain advocacies and promote the general welfare.

The impact of NGOs in society is moving. This observation is evidenced by how NGOs have shaped some states. Charlton and May (1995) stated that some NGOs act as a source of funds for the development of projects. These are critical in building infrastructures and introducing technology to deprive countries. In addition, other NGOs have successfully created volunteer work. The volunteers can extend help to areas affected by disasters and inflicted by conflicts. NGOs have also worked together with governments to ensure that the goals of these governments are attained.

Various issues concern NGOs. One of the most pressing is the empowerment of these organizations. NGOs have always been an irony when it comes to empowerment. These organizations have existed to promote power within communities and societies. Yet NGOs have failed to be considered as powerful entities in states. Another important issue that NGOs have to address is accountability (Ebrahim, 2003). NGOs indeed have to responsible for the welfare of their targets. But being an NGO makes it a government counterpart to ensure that states are progressing properly.

Multinational Corporations: Fuelling the Global Economy

Multinational corporations (MNCs) are business that operates and deliver goods and services in at least two countries. MNCs are influential especially in making economic policies. Continuous opening of world markets pushes the emergence of MNCs. The structure of MNCs differs in terms of operations. Horizontally integrated MNCs operate in different countries to produce the same product. Vertically integrated MNCs make other countries hubs for input production. There are diversified MNCs that operate differently from other MNCs. Strategies of MNCs depend on the governing laws of states. Other MNCs that provide services only establish back-offices in other countries (Blomstrom and Kokko, 1998).

According to Helpman and Krugman (1985), there are two basic reasons why firms decide to become MNCs. Emerging local markets overseas are lucrative. Countries such as China, India, and other populated states are the target markets of most MNCs. Since most of these markets lack capital, enticing MNCs is the best strategy to fuel their respective economies. Second. MNCs, find other countries as cheap. Labour in China, India, and Southeast Asian states is cheap. Some materials in these countries are abundant and less expensive. Most MNCs value the economics of scale. Hence, mass production through inexpensive means is valuable and can only be realized by operating overseas.

The presence of MNCs brings several benefits. These firms create several employment opportunities. In addition, MNCs can affect the prices of commodities and services. The quality of products that MNCs manufacture is a good reference for local producers (Markusen and Venables, 1999). MNCs, however, have tarnished reputations. Some of these firms are accused of violating local laws. For instance, their employees are deprived of quality workplaces and benefits. Some MNCs are accused of destroying the environment. But the most prevalent issue raised against MNCs is their influence on the governments. In some instances, local producers are ignored for the sake of these MNCs. This observation has been true especially in poor countries. Issues such as low wages and human rights violations are prominent among MNCs. At present most of the biggest MNCs in the world are being plagued by lawsuits because of their unfair labor practices.

International law: The Fundamental Statute

Laws create order and ensure that processes are maintained. International laws were created to ensure that states are acting based on agreed norms and standards. One of the basic characteristics of international law is that it governs the existence of IGOs, NGOs, and MNCs. Before the First World War, most of the countries depend on their respective laws. As a result, conflicts between countries have erupted. These disagreements have culminated in the two world wars that have ravaged several countries. The necessity of drafting universal laws has intensified through the years. With the creation of the United Nation, such a need became a reality.

International law is further classified into three forms. Public international law is the most common among international laws. Maritime laws, international criminal laws, and laws governing the Geneva Convention are classic public international laws. Private international law addresses the need to establish legal jurisdiction of cases being discussed in different countries. Supranational law concerns agreements being reached at the regional level (Baylis, et al., 2007).

The influence of international laws on national laws is established. International laws serve as guides in making future laws. There are also international laws that settle usual disputes. But there are several complications regarding the practice of international laws. Some countries are not part of IGOs; thus, these states insist on their freedom from such laws (Friedman, 2006). Other countries cite conflict between national interest and international law as the reason for deviating from international law practice. It is clear, however, that international laws exist because the world has to be in order.

Analysis and Discussion

The presence of international law, IGOs, NGOs, and MNCs is important for a state. International laws create a system that protects countries from possible harm from other states. Countries are accorded with the opportunity to participate in the activities being done globally (Baylis, et al., 2007). IGOs allow states to part of an organization that seeks betterment. IGOs allow nations to establish their identity and create an image that can enhance their development. NGOs serve as the private counterpart of IGOs. The roles of NGOs are diverse, but the common good is always part of their aspirations. Finally, MNCs exist to promote globalization and economic revolution. Goods and services must be distributed worldwide instead of the usual domestic markets.

Aside from their roles, IGOs, NGOs, and MNCs are interconnected. As mentioned previously, NGOs are created because the government sector fails in some aspects of its goals. MNCs were also created because IGOs have continued to become influential in most countries. Tariff agreements and the elimination of economic barriers are only part of the policies introduced by IGOs to promote MNCs. Moreover, IGOs are being assisted by NGOs especially in functions such as staffing, managing projects, and developing future programs. Also, MNCs are considered as primary financiers of some IGOs and NGOs.

IGOs create relationships that make states stronger. Continuous improvements in the methods in which IGOs are formed will strengthen these organizations. NGOs fill in the gaps created by the public sector’s lack of resources. As problems develop, NGOs will always fulfill their roles. MNCs create employment and ensure equitable distribution of goods and resources. Growing economies will recognize the need to make MNCs part of the mainstream. International laws ensure that these institutions act according to their cause. Abuses made by these organizations will be checked because international laws are powerful mitigating tools. Further, international laws maintain their flexibility such that obsolete laws are easily changed. This will ensure that laws become more applicable in the present time.

Nuclear Proliferation

One of the most pressing issues in the world today is nuclear proliferation. This problem has become a concern since countries have started building nuclear technologies. After Japan was hit by two atomic bombs during World War II, states have been aggressive in building similar weapons. Despite the non-existence of foreign threats, countries have continued to spend on such technology. There were several treaties signed by states to address this matter. Aside from the agreements made by states, various talks are being implemented to discuss the matter. These consistent actions done by countries are necessary to ensure that proliferation will remain at the minimum.

The most effective tool that can be used against nuclear proliferation is international law. Several laws were made to specifically limit the production of nuclear weapons. Aside from the production, tests involving these weapons have been strictly monitored. International laws are stapled protection against conflicts. Thus it is important for these laws to constantly address the issue. Through the years, international laws have become major bases for imposing sanctions on countries producing massive weapons. It is also critical for these international laws to be fully implemented. There are rumors that some powerful states are exempted from international laws that bar nuclear proliferation.

Among organizations, IGOs are considered as protectors of peace and prosperity. The United Nations serves as the primary institution that deals with nuclear proliferation. The UN has the power to inspect countries that are suspected as nuclear proliferators. In addition, the UN is a powerful body that deliberates claims of nuclear weapon production. The UN has the right to punish countries that will found guilty of nuclear proliferation. The most likely punishment involves a trade embargo and cancellation of financial aid.

Another vital institution that can aid in solving nuclear proliferation is the NGO. The role of NGOs in solving nuclear proliferation is more defined. Although it has no political power, an NGO can provide ways to minimize the effects of this problem. One of the most common strategies employed by NGOs is the use of advertisements. NGOs use mass media to deliver clear messages advocating the elimination of nuclear proliferation. Promoting information drives allows NGOs to channel their goal to all concerned entities.

MNCs hold the economic future of some countries. The investments that MNCs provide are crucial in economic growth. Usually, MNCs are discouraged by conflicts. Most important, MNCs are not keen on investing in countries more focused on military power. Some MNCs have been evading states that are known as nuclear proliferators. Because of this, some countries have shelved their nuclear plans to entice MNCs. The influence of MNCs in making decisions related to nuclear power is immense. This control has been seen in countries that have remained poor because of their emphasis on nuclear proliferation.

Conclusion

Because of various conflicts, the need for international laws became widespread. One of the major goals of international law is to stop countries from using excessive power. International is at work each time the United Nations decides to reprimand and punish countries that develop nuclear weapons. IGOs also oversee their members especially when conflicts occur. Indeed, nuclear proliferation will be stopped immediately. In this cause, NGOs and MNCs play valuable roles. The presence of these organizations makes countries focus on more pressing issues. These include political stability, economic progress, and social preservation. Without international law, these organizations will never be present. Without these organizations, the world is different from what it is today.

Bibliography

Baylis, J., Gray, S., Cohen E., and Wirtz, J. (2007). Strategy in the contemporary world: An introduction to starategic studies.

Blomstrom, M. and Kokko, H. (1998). Journal of Economic Surveys. “Multinational corporations and spillovers.”

Charlton, R. and May, R. (1995). Third World Quarterly. NGOs, politics, and probity: A policy implementation perspective.” pp. 235-237.

Claude, I.L. (1959). Swords into Plowshares: The problems and progress of international organization. New York: Random House.

Ebrahim, A. (2003). World Development. “Accountability in practice mechanisms for NGOs” pp. 813-829.

Friedman, T. (2006). The World is Flat: A brief history of the twenty-first century. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Helpman, E. and Krugman, P. (1985). Market Structure and Foreign Trade. Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press.

Keohane, R. O., and Nye, J. S. (1972). Transnational Relations and World Politics. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press.

Jentleson, B.W. (2007). American Foreign Policy: The Dynamics of choice in the 21st Century Third Edition. New York: W.W. Norton Company.

Love, M.C. (2007). Beyond Sovereignty: Issues for a Global Agenda. London: Palgrave McMillan

Markusen, J. and Venables, A. (1999). European Economic Review. “Foreign direct investments as catalyst for industrial development.” pp. 335-356.

Rodney B. and Biersteker, T. (2003). The Emergence of Private Authority in Global Governance Cambridge, Mass.: Cambridge Studies in International Relations.

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