How can science shops support the role of NGOs in societal governance?
NGOs are a part of governance in society; they give voice to citizen concerns and act as early warning systems for emergent problems in society. According to the White Paper on European Governance (COM, 2001/428) NGOs act to mobilise people and support, for instance, those suffering from social exclusion and discrimination and thereby put pressure on statutory authorities, institutional bodies and companies to take action. NGOs also themselves deliver services and solutions e.g. in providing welfare and in developing and promoting sustainable solutions to environmental problems. The EC has also addressed the innovative role of civil society organisations in the discussions about science and society: The involvement of patients’ associations, transport user groups or consumer organisations in defining and monitoring research activities and programmes brings research and society together and helps to ensure that results match need”. (SEC, 2000; pages 8f) NGOs differ greatly in terms of s
