Abstract: The subject of the research is the methodological approaches used in modern political science studies of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs). The emphasis is placed on the "state approach", which has received much less scientific attention to date than other methodological "platforms". This approach is based on two statements: 1) the effectiveness of INGOs is often determined not by their independence, but by strict accountability to the patron States; 2) INGOs are often created not independently, based on independent regulatory and professional standards, but externally in order to realize the interests and priorities of the patron states. In other words, states act as patrons, and INGOs are agents who solve the tasks of patrons. The study applied the provisions and conclusions of theories related in one way or another to the activities of modern INGOs: theories of network interaction of INGOs, transcalar activity of INGOs, structural limits of the INGOs power. The article attempts to classify existing approaches in INGOs research ("cosmopolitan", "national", "state"); to substantiate the productivity and value of the "state approach" (INGOs are considered as subordinate actors who adhere to the mission and interests of their patrons); to identify the main directions of critical analysis of their activities (INGOs, related with states, are often inefficient in strengthening civil society; characterized by latent nature of activities and a low level of legitimacy). It is concluded that relations between states and INGOs often take the form of a "patron-agent" and
and characterized as: "conspiracy", "adaptability", "grassroots control", "geographical shift".