Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) involved in international health are as numerous as they are diverse (see Figure 1). They are governed by different types of institutions and have a variety of emphases, both geographically and in terms of a thematic focus. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is a global organization that tends to focus mainly on disaster relief, both short-term and long-term. Médicins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) is concerned with providing medical care in conflict zones. Save the Children concentrates on children's health and wellbeing, as do a number of other NGOs. Many are faith-based organizations, including World Vision International and Project HOPE. Others, like the Canadian Public Health Association, are affiliated with national organizations.

These and other nongovernmental organizations in the international-health field raise awareness about health issues and concerns worldwide. They strive to maximize the impact and outcome of international-health advocacy through coordination and collaboration.

JANET HATCHER ROBERTS

(SEE ALSO: International Health; Pan American Health Organization; UNICEF; World Health Organization)