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

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?