In this class, we will consider what NGOs (non-governmental organizations) do and why they exist. For example, marine pollution caused by plastic waste has become a serious problem in recent years, but plastic manufacturers and national governments have not taken any proactive measures. As a result, many NGOs are working to solve the problem by influencing public opinion and politicians to request the establishment of laws and conducting steady cleanup campaigns. In addition to this, we will learn about various examples of NGO activities, mainly through video materials, and we will have you discuss the significance and challenges of these activities from the perspective of a non-expert, i.e., an ordinary citizen.

Although international cooperation is a specialized field, what can be gained from it is a unique perspective on the extremely educational question of "what is modern society like?" In classes where NGO workers talk about the reality of NGO activities, including their achievements and challenges, students are astonished and impressed by the fact that, contrary to the glamorous appearance on the surface, it is a steady, persevering job full of troubles. I think that this will resonate not only with those who want to become NGO workers, but also with those who aspire to "make an international contribution" or "be useful in some way" on a daily basis, outside of work.