Niche, connections and NGO operation in China

Abstract

Social organizations play an important role in social governance because the government lacks sufficient resources and energy to address certain social issues. However, the political system determines the social space in which social organizations operate. In an environment where the operation of social organizations is heavily regulated, social organizations have to be strategic in their interaction with the government and in providing social services. Using a case of a non-government organization (NGO) that provides assistance to AIDS patients in China, this paper explores the strategies employed by NGOs in a regulated environment. This paper finds that identifying the right niche or areas of concern and finding the right partners are crucial factors that affect the feasibility and quality of the enforcement of initiatives or missions of NGOs.