Enterprise risk management in non-governmental organizations

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are social structures formed by individuals who voluntarily come together around a common goal, independent, and operate for the public good. In today's world, increasing global uncertainties, economic instabilities, technological developments, and social transformations expose not only public and private sector institutions but also NGOs, which aim to produce social benefit, to multifaceted risks. This thesis aims to examine the enterprise risk management (ERM) practices of NGOs operating in Turkey. For this purpose, in-depth interviews were conducted with five NGO representatives, and the risks identified during these interviews were expanded through a survey administered to forty NGOs across the country. The findings were analyzed using a descriptive survey model. Within the scope of the research, ERM practices of NGOs were evaluated using a quantitative research method. The survey developed for this purpose was applied to NGOs with different legal statuses, such as associations, federations, confederations, professional organizations, and foundations. Twenty-four risks were assessed using a Likert-type scale. Additionally, sub-dimensions such as risk perception, response strategies developed against each risk, the impact of these strategies on the risk level, and risk monitoring practices were also measured. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations. The findings reveal that NGOs' responses to risks vary according to the type of risk; that the risk of unsustainable income due to the lack of regular donors is among the most significant challenges; that the absence of long-term financial planning is directly associated with the lack of risk regulations; and that there are notable shortcomings in risk monitoring practices. Furthermore, the study indicates that a comprehensive ERM culture hasn't fully established in Turkish NGOs yet. By offering practical recommendations to support the development of ERM culture, this study aims to contribute to the literature on ERM in the civil society field.