Largest NGO in the World 2024, List of Top-10

In an era marked by increasing social, environmental, and humanitarian challenges, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a pivotal role in driving positive change and fostering development worldwide. As of 2024, several NGOs stand out for their extensive reach, impactful initiatives, and unwavering commitment to addressing pressing global issues. Let’s delve into the list of the world’s top 10 largest NGOs, showcasing their remarkable contributions to creating a better world for all.

What are NGOs?

NGOs, or non-governmental organizations, are non-profit entities independent of government control, dedicated to addressing social, environmental, and humanitarian issues. They operate globally, advocating for human rights, providing aid to vulnerable populations, and promoting sustainable development. NGOs rely on donations, grants, and volunteer work to carry out their missions, fostering positive change and empowering communities worldwide.

Categories of NGOs

There are different types of NGOs which are classified according to their work and level of operations.

On the basis of Works, the types of NGOs are as follows:

• Service-Oriented NGOs: Focus on providing tangible services and support to communities.
• Charity-Oriented NGOs: Primarily dedicated to philanthropy and aid distribution efforts.
• Empowerment-Oriented NGOs: Aim to uplift communities and promote self-sufficiency through various initiatives.
• Participation-Oriented NGOs: Emphasize community involvement and collaboration in decision-making processes.

On the basis of level of operations, the types of NGOs are as follows:

• Community-Based Organizations: Operate at the grassroots level, focusing on specific communities or neighborhoods.
• City-Level Organizations: Provide services and initiatives within a particular city or urban area.
• National-Level NGOs: Have a nationwide scope and impact, addressing issues at the national level.
• International-Level NGOs: Operate across borders and continents, addressing global challenges and humanitarian crises.

World’s Largest NGO 2024

Save the Children, established in 1919 and headquartered in London, operates across 120 countries globally. With a focus on improving children’s lives through healthcare, education, emergency aid, and economic development, it boasts 30 national member organizations worldwide. Addressing issues like hunger, health, education, advocacy, climate crisis, and humanitarian crises, Save the Children reached nearly 43 million children and responded to 103 emergencies in 2021, with a combined revenue of approximately USD 2.2 billion.

Top-10 Largest NGOs in the World 2024

Save the Children, with the global presence in 120 countries, holds the title of the largest NGO in the world, followed by Oxfam International, Doctors Without Borders, and BRAC.

Here is the list of top-10 largest NGOs in the world 2024:

Largest NGO of the World – Save the Children

Establishment: 1919

Global Presence: 120 countries

Save the Children, established in 1919 and headquartered in London, operates in 120 countries globally, focusing on enhancing children’s well-being through healthcare, education, emergency aid, and economic development initiatives. With 30 national member organizations worldwide, it addresses critical issues like hunger, health, education, policy advocacy, climate crisis, and conflict zones such as the war in Ukraine. In 2021, Save the Children reached nearly 43 million children and responded to 103 humanitarian crises, with a combined revenue exceeding USD 2.2 billion.

Second Biggest NGO of the World – Oxfam International

Establishment: 1942

Global Presence: 90+ counties

Oxfam International, founded in 1942, operates across 90+ countries, striving to combat poverty through initiatives in water and sanitation, gender justice, and disaster relief. With significant interventions in Yemen and Syria, Oxfam has provided vital services like clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to millions affected by conflicts and disasters. In 2020-2021, Oxfam’s impactful COVID-19 response reached over 14 million individuals, while their advocacy efforts on gender justice positively impacted 1.7 million people, contributing to a total income of USD 912 million.

World’s Third Largest NGO – Doctors Without Borders

Establishment: 1971

Global Presence: 70+ countries

Doctors Without Borders, established in 1971 and known as Médecins Sans Frontières in France, operates across 70+ countries, providing medical assistance in conflict zones, disaster-affected regions, and areas with endemic diseases. With a strong focus on issues like antibiotic resistance, maternal health, HIV/AIDS, and malnutrition, they allocate 85% of their income to programs. In 2021 alone, they conducted over 12.5 million medical consultations, administered 1.6 million vaccinations, and treated over 1 million patients in MSF hospitals and clinics. With a surplus of €169 million, the NGO primarily relies on private funding sources for its operations.