Chapter 29 - How can governments at the United Nations work with NGOs on immigration? Experience and perspective of a UN Ambassador Emeritus

Abstract

In this chapter, the important subject of how governments (Member States) at the United Nations work with nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) on the topic of immigration is discussed from the viewpoint of the experience and opinion of a UN Ambassador Emeritus who continues to collaborate with NGOs. The roles and contributions that NGOs make at the United Nations and in the world are also presented, as well as the sometimes-conflicting relationship between Member States and NGOs. In the context of this volume, the authors' focus is on the specific relationship between NGOs and the United States government (a Member State of the UN), with the second author presenting an account of immigration in the United States. Examples are given of how NGOs have worked with governments, especially regarding the safety and needs of migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, along with suggestions for improving the relationship and cooperation between these two entities. Recommendations are offered about how to improve the existing operating model that can help governments and the United States in particular, and how NGOs can achieve greater success in efforts to help vulnerable groups of migrants, refuges, and asylum seekers.