The guiding questions of this course are: What is the role of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs, the international term for nonprofit organizations) in helping to empower people and support advocacy around the world? What is the shape and scope of civil society organizations in South America compared to the United States and globally?  How do these organizations emerge and evolve over time? What is the relationship between “western” funders, local activists and organizers and civil society NGOs active in different regions?  The basic goal is to help students have a general understanding of the ongoing issues and challenges of these organizations working abroad.