NGOs' least‐played role: Bridging between a divided public administration: The case of Yemen

Abstract

This article examines the bridging role non‐governmental organizations (NGOs) can play between a divided public administration in a conflict‐ridden country. Based on interviews with various stakeholders in Yemen, we argue that NGO might need to mediate between conflicting authorities to effectively carry out their activities. By doing so, they serve as a bridge that could help maintain relations between the two fragmented administrations and possibly facilitate the process of post‐conflict state building. While not all NGOs are capable or required to fulfill this role, we identify four enabling factors: (1) the readiness of stakeholders to engage; (2) public support for the NGO; and (3) NGOs' adequate capacity; and (4) the donor's support.