State actors have typically dominated bilateral and multilateral relations. Meanwhile, the dynamics and complexities of globalization, internationalization of domestic policy, and increase in global connections have extended the focus of governance beyond the state to incorporate global governance interests. The growing impact of non-state actors (NSAs) in international relations and diplomatic activities underscores the crucial contributions that NSAs make to reduce the perceived legitimacy deficit in global governance at both the international and subnational levels. Conceptually, a state actor is an entity that represents a recognized government, such as a nation-state or its institutions, exercising authority and sovereignty. On the other hand, a non-state actor refers to organizations or individuals not affiliated with or controlled by any government, such as NGOs, corporations, or insurgent groups. Both play roles in domestic and international affairs. On many policy issues and thematic areas of national and global interest, non-state actors play a significant role at the societal, state, and international levels. Given that democratic governance is fundamentally participatory, it allows civil society organizations, as well as non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations, to provide input and constructive policy alternatives into both international and government apparatus and other areas of global concern. Respect for and acknowledgment of the legitimacy of quasi-governmental entities driven by specific goals across multiple global economic and political sectors are critical to international relations.
