The role of non-state actors is important in international relations according to which theory:

Constructivist theory emphasizes the influence of non-state actors, such as NGOs and multinational corporations, in shaping international relations through norms, ideas, and identities. Unlike realism, which prioritizes states, constructivism highlights how these actors drive global cooperation. Studying this underscores their role in diplomacy, the challenges of integrating diverse entities, and their impact on global governance. It also offers insights into how norms foster collaboration, providing lessons on leveraging non-state actors to address issues like climate change and human rights effectively in international frameworks.