This paper applies a governance quality framework to the evaluation of global environmental governance, using non-governmental stakeholder perceptions regarding the quality of governance of environmental policy forums. The case study selected is the UN Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (REDD+). Data were collected by means of a series of quantitative and qualitative internet-based surveys conducted between March 2010 and July 2011. It appears than non-governmental organisations (NGOs) from developed and developing countries should not be viewed as a united bloc, as organisations from the developing countries appear to be more favourably disposed to intergovernmental processes than their 'northern' counterparts. Regional results of 'southern' developing country NGOs in the Asia-Pacific show a similar trend. The paper supports the contention that a reappraisal of how north-south relations should be understood, in the context of climate negotiations, is required.