Multiple Discourses and Micro-Politics; A Framework for Analysing Small Development NGOs

Abstract

This thesis is concerned with the concept of legitimacy in relation to small development NGOs. The world of development NGOs is fragmented and diverse, allowing for no single unified discourse, but suggests a world of multiple discourses in which the NGOs are involved. Assuming an actor oriented approach allows for insights in the multiple directions and dimensions of the concept of NGO legitimacy. The micro-politics of NGO practices stand at the base of the giving of meaning to symbols relating to legitimacy and the legitimating processes itself. This in turn is shaped by the multiple discourses that the NGO is engaged in, in respect to its different stakeholders. This thesis suggests a framework for analysing legitimacy of small development NGOs, based on the micro-politics and multiple discourses of these NGOs.