Resumen de Citizens’ perceptions on the role of greek environmental NGOs

Despina Sdrali, Konstantina Mpimpa

• The aim of this research is to identify citizens’ perceptions concerning Greek Environmental Non Governmental Organizations (ENGOs). The study, conducted via closed-type questionnaires, focused on 285 citizens in the greater Athens urban area, Greece. The results indicate that according to the respondents ENGOs are an instrument for individuals to express their opinion and they are willing to funding support ENGOs. Despite the fact that they point out the important role of ENGOs, they suggest that Greek ENGOs should increase their pressure towards the state in order to raise the protection of the environment. On the basis of citizens’ responses on the role of ENGOs, four groups were identified using cluster analysis. The perceptions of the groups cover all the ranges, from being strong supporters of ENGOs to non-supporters. It seems that the Greek ENGOs’ role is determined by the need for further membership and action by all citizens and government for a more effective environmental protection