Responsible volunteering: how to choose a program that does no harm

BADILI Team

Valencia, Spain

8 min

International volunteering can create meaningful impact, but it can also reproduce dependency and paternalism if it lacks local leadership, continuity and accountability.

Warning signs to watch for

  • No qualification required for vulnerable populations
  • Extremely short stays
  • No named local coordinator
  • No impact reports
  • Tourism bundled into the volunteering offer

Questions worth asking

  • Who leads the program locally?
  • How much of the fee stays in the community?
  • What continuity exists after I leave?
  • Can I speak with previous volunteers?

Want to explore BADILI programs in detail?

Apply now