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The global refugee crisis has placed unprecedented demands on humanitarian systems, with international Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) playing a crucial role in supporting refugees and influencing related policies. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted impact of international NGOs on refugee support and policy influence across diverse global contexts. By synthesizing current research, policy documents, and case studies, this paper aims to enhance understanding of NGO contributions to essential services for refugees, their strategies for policy advocacy, and the complex dynamics between NGO activities and government initiatives. The review examines the effectiveness of NGO interventions in key areas such as healthcare, education, and livelihood support, analyzing their methods of policy influence through advocacy, research, and direct engagement with policymakers. It also evaluates refugee perceptions of NGO support compared to government assistance, revealing varied experiences across different contexts and types of aid. Furthermore, the paper investigates the alignment between NGO activities and official government policies on refugee management, highlighting both collaborative successes and areas of tension. The analysis reveals that while NGOs have made significant contributions to refugee welfare and policy development, challenges remain in coordination, sustainability, and adapting to diverse cultural contexts. The paper concludes with a discussion of future research directions and recommendations for enhancing NGO effectiveness in refugee support and policy advocacy, emphasizing the need for improved coordination, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based practices in addressing the global refugee crisis.
Adebayo et al. (Mon,) studied this question.