Abstract - EN
Defining non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and foundations, the entry outlines a global picture of the non-profit sector, emphasising the activities privileged in each major region through the analysis of the actions of NGOs and foundations. Then it examines various experiences and trajectories of these organizations’ development at the local and national levels. Finally, it critically reviews the actions of international NGOs and foundations that operate at the inter-country or global level. It concludes on the importance of a real partnership between public authorities, NGOs and foundations to cope with the 21st century’s main societal and global risks.