Transnational Civil Society and the National Identity Question in East Asia

Abstract

Abstract This article examines the relevance and effectiveness of the transnational civil society approach to the national identity question in East Asia. It considers the role played by International Nongovernmental Organizations (INGOs) in defining the boundaries of political communities in East Asia, and especially, how they have helped small ethnic groups in that region to pursue the objective of self-determination. Specifically, the paper seeks to explain why INGOs are able to exert influence on this issue; outlines the necessary conditions for effective INGOs; and considers the existing problems associated with INGOs. The article concludes that INGOs have become one of the major international forces influencing the politics of national identity. Clearly by becoming involved in the national identity question INGOs constitute a new powerful force which helps redefine the political “conditions” of contemporary societies; challenges the monopoly of the national identity/boundary issue by national govern...