Ethical and Moral Questions and Considerations

Think carefully about the kind of work that you will be doing; is there a genuine need for volunteers to do this or has the opportunity been created as an adventure holiday?

Consider obvious factors such as where you want to go and what type of volunteer work you want to do but also think about the organisations philosophy towards development. Whilst many organisations have deep rooted, sustainable links with communities and local people, others operate on a softer, more commercially minded basis.

If you have chosen to volunteer overseas with an organisation do as much research as possible into what is on offer and research their reputation.

Is the project run by a locally based NGO?

Is there a partner organisation with responsibility for designing and implementing the project?

Ensure that your work is continued and is appropriate. Is the project sustainable?

How was the project identified?

Is there any evidence for stakeholder consultation in the project development phase? Was any research carried out to identify the need which the project addresses? Were the local community involved? Is the project based on fulfilling a wider government or NGO objective?

How was the project designed?

Who had input into the designing of the project? Has an effective solution been found to the identified problem? Who will manage the project?

Have the stakeholders been considered?

Who will benefit from the project? Will anyone be adversely affected by the project?  How will the expectations of the stakeholders be managed?

How will the project be implemented?

Who will coordinate the project? What exactly will be done? Where will it take place? When? How much will it cost?

What are the aims and objectives for the project?

Are there a series of defined aims and objectives? Is there a realistic timeline for completion? Is there a transparent, clear costing/budget for the project?

How will volunteers contribute to the project?

Has the volunteer role been defined? Will the volunteers be provided with training? What skills are required?

Think about who your donors are if fundraising. What do you have to do in return? E.g. do you have to publicise an unethical or culturally sensitive issue or product with no background information or direct experience.

How will the project outcome be assessed? How will the project be monitored and evaluated? Is there an opportunity for feedback?