The Challenge of Societal Recognition of Humanitarian and Development NGO Practitioners in Japan: A Volunteer or a Professional?

Abstract Over the last three decades, Japanese NGOs have become increasingly engaged in delivery of foreign aid, and humanitarian responses to national emergencies. Despite these attainments, a lack recognition for NGO sector among domestic audience remains noticeable. The article proposes that, despite increasing professionalization professionalism sector, activities practitioners are frequently construed as volunteering. Additionally, contends that concerns about anti-government or “political” undertone diminishing interest international cooperation issues constitute considerable challenge fostering building constituencies development NGOs. Finally, dominant approach non-profit voluntary Japan promoted by government post-1995/1998 climate is discussed consequential hindrance process establishing NGOs’ aid work professional knowledge-based enterprise public sphere.