Nuevas estrategias de cooperación en América Latina : creación de redes solidarias a partir de la sociedad civil. El caso de Coaniquem

Abstract

The current era is characterized by the increasing role of non governmental organizations (NGOs). In order to deal with the scenario in which States and inter-governmental organizations have traditionally carried out their activities, NGOs have a wealth of resources, among which a recognized reputation of moral integrity, incorruptibility and altruism. This paper examines the emergence of a type of NGO that interacts both within the civil society as well as beyond a country's borders, a paradigmatic case of which is the Corporation for assisting children who have suffered accidents involving burns (Coaniquem). Considering States' limited capacity to meet specific needs, in this case those of children who have suffered this type of accidents in the región, the article attempts to explain the impact of Coaniquem's growth and expansion beyond national borders and its multiplier effect for the achievement of its particular aims across Latin America.