The previous chapters have discussed traditional, governmental international organizations, focusing on their normative and governance structures, processes and goals. Other important actors on the international stage are non-governmental organizations (NGOs). NGOs, like intergovernmental organizations, play a decisive role and have an important impact in the international system. Today, over 7500 international NGOs and tens of thousands of local NGOs are active around the globe. In their fields of activity, they contribute to the policies of states and international organizations. In practice, NGOs often belong to the influential players in the decision-making process of international organizations. Some NGOs have a significant impact based on their knowledge, membership and funding.