Rethinking International Volunteering

 

Rethinking International Volunteering: Should Universities Expect Grassroots NGOs in Developing Countries to Host International Volunteers Free of Charge?

By Gaurav Kashyap
Managing Director, HEEALS (Health Education Environment and Livelihood Society), India

 

International Volunteering Is Meant to Build Global Citizenship—Not Financial Burdens for Grassroots NGOs

Every year, universities across the United Kingdom and Europe encourage thousands of students to volunteer internationally. These experiences are promoted as opportunities to develop leadership, intercultural understanding, professional skills, and a deeper appreciation of global challenges while contributing to communities around the world.

It is a commendable objective.

However, there is a fundamental question that is rarely discussed:

Is it fair to expect grassroots NGOs in developing countries to provide free accommodation, food, transportation, supervision, and project management for international volunteers simply because they are "volunteers"?

Many universities have policies under which volunteer opportunities advertised through their careers or volunteering services are expected to be unpaid and, in many cases, only allow volunteers to be reimbursed for reasonable expenses rather than paying programme fees. These policies are understandable in their domestic context, where volunteering is often local and organizations may have access to public funding or established volunteer infrastructures.

But when these same expectations are applied to international volunteering in developing countries, they can unintentionally exclude the very grassroots organizations that are creating the greatest social impact.

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The Reality of Grassroots NGOs

Across India, Nepal, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and many other developing nations, thousands of local NGOs work every day in communities facing poverty, poor sanitation, gender inequality, inadequate healthcare, climate vulnerability, and limited educational opportunities.

Unlike large international organizations, grassroots NGOs generally:

• operate with very limited budgets;
• rely on small donations and project-based grants;
• receive little unrestricted funding;
• employ small teams;
• prioritize spending on community programmes rather than administrative overhead.

These organizations are not businesses.

Nor are they wealthy institutions.

Their limited financial resources are dedicated to serving vulnerable communities.

 

Hosting International Volunteers Is Not Free

There is a widespread misconception that volunteers cost organizations nothing.

The reality is very different.

Hosting one international volunteer often requires:

• airport pickup and drop-off;
• safe accommodation;
• three daily meals;
• local transportation;
• orientation programmes;
• cultural briefings;
• project supervision;
• staff mentoring;
• administrative coordination;
• office facilities;
• field visits;
• emergency support;
• safeguarding measures;
• monitoring and evaluation.

Every volunteer requires planning, staff time, logistical support, and financial investment.

For many grassroots NGOs, these costs are substantial.

 

Who Should Bear These Costs?

This is perhaps the most important question.

Should a small community-based NGO in rural India, already struggling to fund education programmes for disadvantaged children, also finance the accommodation and meals of international volunteers arriving from some of the world's wealthiest economies?

Should organizations serving vulnerable communities divert funds intended for women, children, health programmes, or sanitation projects simply to ensure that volunteers pay nothing?

Most people would agree that this expectation is difficult to justify.

 

International Volunteers Also Benefit

Volunteering is often portrayed as an act of giving.

It certainly is.

But it is equally an opportunity for learning.

Students gain:

• international work experience;
• intercultural competence;
• practical field skills;
• research opportunities;
• professional development;
• academic credits in some programmes;
• leadership experience;
• enhanced employability.

For many graduates, international volunteering significantly strengthens their CV and opens future career opportunities.

This means volunteering is not a one-sided relationship.

It creates value for both the community and the volunteer.

Recognising this mutual benefit makes it reasonable for participants to contribute towards the actual costs of their stay.

 

Paying Universities Is Accepted—Why Not Supporting Grassroots NGOs?

Every year, students willingly invest significant sums in:

• university tuition;
• study abroad programmes;
• international field schools;
• exchange programmes;
• educational tours;
• language courses;
• professional training.

These expenses are accepted because students understand they are investing in their education and future.

Yet when a grassroots NGO requests a transparent contribution towards accommodation, meals, transportation, and supervision, the opportunity is sometimes viewed differently.

This creates an inconsistency.

Students may spend thousands of pounds on international education but are discouraged from contributing a modest amount that directly supports the organization hosting them.

 

Programme Fees Are Often Cost Recovery, Not Profit

Another misconception is that NGOs charging programme fees are operating commercially.

For most grassroots organizations, programme contributions simply cover:

• accommodation;
• meals;
• local transport;
• volunteer coordination;
• supervision;
• community activities;
• safety;
• administration.

In many cases, these contributions also help sustain community programmes that would otherwise struggle due to insufficient funding.

They are not profits.

They are operational necessities.

 

Universities Should Distinguish Between Commercial Voluntourism and Grassroots NGOs

Universities are right to protect students from exploitative practices.

Commercial "voluntourism" has rightly received criticism where organizations prioritize profit over community benefit.

However, there is a significant difference between commercial enterprises and registered grassroots NGOs that transparently explain their programme costs and demonstrate measurable social impact.

Treating both in the same way risks excluding genuine organizations that are creating meaningful change in underserved communities.

A more nuanced approach would better serve both students and communities.

 

Let Students Make Informed Choices

Universities exist to educate, empower, and encourage critical thinking.

Rather than deciding in advance which opportunities students may or may not consider based solely on programme fees, universities could provide transparent information and allow students to make informed decisions.

If an NGO clearly explains:

• what the programme involves;
• what costs are included;
• how the funds are used;
• how volunteers will be supported;
• the expected learning outcomes;

students should be trusted to decide whether the opportunity aligns with their goals and financial circumstances.

Transparency should be the standard—not automatic exclusion.

 

Supporting the Principle of Localization

The international development community increasingly emphasizes localization—recognizing that local organizations are best placed to understand community needs and deliver sustainable solutions.

Governments, donors, and international agencies frequently speak about strengthening local leadership and increasing direct support for community-based organizations.

Yet if university policies effectively prevent students from even seeing opportunities offered by grassroots NGOs because those organizations cannot subsidize volunteers, this unintentionally undermines the very principle of localization.

Supporting local organizations means recognising their realities—not expecting them to operate with the resources of international institutions.

 

A More Equitable Partnership Model

Instead of excluding organizations that request reasonable programme contributions, universities could adopt a more balanced approach.

Volunteer opportunities could be promoted provided that:

• organizations are legally registered;
• safeguarding standards are met;
• programme fees are transparent;
• costs reflect genuine operational expenses;
• learning outcomes are clearly defined.

Universities could also:

• offer bursaries or travel scholarships;
• encourage ethical international volunteering;
• educate students about the financial realities of grassroots organizations;
• build long-term partnerships with trusted NGOs.

Such an approach benefits everyone.

Students gain meaningful international experiences.

Communities continue receiving valuable support.

Grassroots organizations remain financially sustainable.

 

International Volunteering Should Be Based on Partnership, Not Charity

Perhaps the most important shift is philosophical.

International volunteering should not be viewed as wealthy countries "helping" poorer countries.

Instead, it should be understood as a partnership built on mutual learning, shared responsibility, and respect.

Grassroots NGOs provide knowledge, experience, community trust, and opportunities for learning that cannot be replicated in a classroom.

International volunteers bring enthusiasm, skills, fresh perspectives, and intercultural exchange.

Both sides contribute.

Both sides benefit.

Therefore, both sides should share responsibility for making these programmes sustainable.

 

Conclusion

International volunteering has enormous potential to promote global citizenship, empathy, and sustainable development.

But for this potential to be realised, policies must reflect the realities of those working closest to vulnerable communities.

Grassroots NGOs in developing countries are not luxury institutions.

They are mission-driven organizations operating with limited resources while addressing some of the world's most pressing social and environmental challenges.

Expecting them to finance accommodation, meals, transportation, supervision, and programme management for international volunteers is often unrealistic and inequitable.

Universities should continue protecting students from exploitation—but they should also recognise the legitimate costs faced by ethical, community-based organizations.

Rather than excluding opportunities that involve reasonable programme contributions, universities should promote transparency, informed choice, and equitable partnerships.

International volunteering should empower both students and host communities. Achieving that goal requires moving beyond the assumption that every volunteer placement must be free for participants and instead embracing a model based on shared responsibility, mutual respect, and sustainable collaboration.

 

Author's Note

This article is not an argument against unpaid volunteering or student protection policies. Rather, it is a call to recognize the financial realities faced by grassroots organizations in low- and middle-income countries. Ethical international volunteering depends on transparency, accountability, and fairness for all stakeholders—including the local organizations that make these transformative experiences possible.

Bullying in India: Understanding a Hidden Crisis

 

Bullying in India: Understanding a Hidden Crisis

Bullying is a significant but often underreported problem in India, affecting the well-being, education, and mental health of many children and adolescents. Research conducted across different regions of the country suggests that approximately one-third of school students experience some form of bullying, although reported prevalence varies depending on the study, age group, and location.

Bullying can occur in schools, colleges, online platforms, neighborhoods, and other social settings. It commonly includes verbal abuse, physical aggression, social exclusion, intimidation, spreading rumors, and cyberbullying.

Common Forms of Bullying

• Verbal Bullying: Name-calling, teasing, mocking, insults, and spreading rumors are among the most commonly reported forms of bullying in Indian schools.
• Physical Bullying: Hitting, pushing, kicking, damaging belongings, or other forms of physical aggression.
• Social or Relational Bullying: Deliberately excluding someone from groups, friendships, or activities, or encouraging others to isolate them.
• Cyberbullying: Harassment, threats, impersonation, or sharing harmful content through social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, or other digital spaces.

Factors That Contribute to Bullying

Bullying is influenced by multiple social, psychological, and environmental factors rather than a single cause. Some contributing factors include:

• Intense academic competition and pressure to perform.
• Lack of social-emotional learning and conflict-resolution education.
• Poor school climate and inadequate supervision.
• Discrimination based on appearance, gender, disability, caste, religion, language, socioeconomic background, or other personal characteristics.
• Exposure to violence or aggressive behavior at home, in school, or through media.
• Limited awareness among students, parents, and educators about recognizing and responding to bullying.

The Role of Schools

Research indicates that students are more likely to report bullying when schools have supportive teachers, clear anti-bullying policies, and effective reporting mechanisms. Creating a safe and inclusive school environment requires:

• Promoting respect, empathy, and inclusion.
• Encouraging students to report bullying without fear of retaliation.
• Training teachers to identify and respond appropriately to bullying.
• Providing counseling and mental health support for both victims and those exhibiting bullying behavior.
• Engaging parents and communities in prevention efforts.

Legal and Policy Framework in India

India does not currently have a single comprehensive national anti-bullying law specifically for primary and secondary schools.

However, students are protected through various constitutional provisions, child protection laws, educational guidelines, and criminal laws where bullying involves offences such as assault, criminal intimidation, sexual harassment, stalking, or other forms of abuse.

In higher educational institutions, anti-ragging regulations issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) require colleges and universities to prevent, monitor, and take action against ragging.

Cyberbullying and online harassment may be addressed under the Information Technology Act, 2000, along with applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, depending on the nature of the offence.

Moving Forward

Preventing bullying requires a whole-school and community approach. Students, teachers, parents, school leaders, policymakers, and communities all play an important role in creating environments where every child feels safe, respected, and valued. Building empathy, encouraging open communication, strengthening mental health support, and implementing effective prevention programs are essential steps toward reducing bullying and promoting healthy learning environments.

 

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026

 🌸

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026 🌸

Theme: “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld”
Menstruation is natural, yet millions of girls and women still face stigma, shame, lack of education, and limited access to safe menstrual products and sanitation facilities.
A #PeriodFriendlyWorld means creating a society where no girl misses school because of her period, no woman feels ashamed of her body, and everyone has access to dignity, awareness, hygiene, and support. 💜
Ending period stigma begins with conversation, education, compassion, and equality. Together, we can build communities where menstruation is treated with understanding — not silence.
We are deeply grateful to Chiara for supporting sanitary pad distribution and standing with us for menstrual dignity. Special thanks to Lola, our dedicated team member, for coordinating this meaningful initiative with care and compassion.
We also sincerely thank Karen, our special guest from France, for sharing her valuable thoughts and insights on the importance of menstrual hygiene awareness and women’s health.
Heartfelt appreciation to the school staff, teachers, community women, and children who actively participated in Menstrual Hygiene Day and helped create a safe and open space for awareness, learning, and empowerment. 🌿

Periods are not a taboo. They are a natural part of life, health, and womanhood. Let us create a world where every girl and woman can menstruate with dignity and confidence. 💜
#MenstrualHygieneDay #PeriodFriendlyWorld #BreakTheStigma #WomenEmpowerment #GenderEquality

Humanity has pushed the Earth beyond its Safe Operating Space.

 

Humanity has pushed the Earth beyond its Safe Operating Space.

The planet’s natural resilience — the ability of Earth’s systems to absorb shocks and remain stable — is weakening rapidly. Global warming is accelerating, biodiversity is collapsing, forests and oceans are under immense pressure, and ecosystems across the world are showing clear signs of degradation. Scientists are also warning of emerging tipping points in critical Earth systems that could trigger abrupt and irreversible environmental changes. 

We have entered the Anthropocene — an era in which human activity has become the dominant force shaping the Earth system. Industrialization, deforestation, fossil fuel dependence, pollution, overconsumption, and unsustainable development are now altering the very foundations that support life on this planet.

To understand these risks, scientists developed the Planetary Boundaries framework — one of the most important scientific models for defining the safe environmental limits within which humanity can continue to thrive. The framework combines decades of research across climate science, ecology, Earth systems, oceanography, biodiversity, and environmental change.

Planetary boundaries are scientifically defined guardrails that identify the safe limits for human pressure on nine critical Earth system processes. These boundaries are essential for maintaining the Earth’s resilience, stability, and ability to support human civilization.

If humanity remains within these boundaries, the Earth can continue to function as a stable and dependable home for present and future generations. But if these boundaries are crossed, we risk destabilizing the planet’s life-support systems and triggering large-scale irreversible damage.

Today, seven out of the nine planetary boundaries have already been transgressed.

These include:

·         Climate change

·         Biodiversity loss

·         Land-system change

·         Freshwater disruption

·         Biogeochemical flows (nitrogen and phosphorus imbalance)

·         Novel entities and chemical pollution

·         Ocean acidification

The 2025 Planetary Health Check — a yearly scientific assessment of the Earth’s condition — confirmed for the first time that Ocean Acidification has become the seventh breached planetary boundary. This highlights the critical role oceans play in regulating climate, absorbing carbon, supporting biodiversity, and maintaining global ecological balance.

The planetary boundaries are deeply interconnected. Damage to one system directly affects others. Climate change influences biodiversity collapse, deforestation disrupts water cycles, pollution damages ecosystems and human health, and ocean degradation accelerates climate instability. None of these crises can be addressed in isolation.

Crossing planetary boundaries does not always produce immediate catastrophe, but it significantly increases the risk of large-scale environmental disruption, social instability, food insecurity, water shortages, economic crises, forced migration, and public health emergencies. Together, these boundaries represent a critical threshold for the future of human societies and the biosphere of which humanity is a part.

The planetary boundaries framework was first proposed in 2009 by 28 internationally renowned scientists led by Johan Rockström. In 2023, for the first time, all nine planetary boundaries were fully assessed together, revealing the scale of humanity’s ecological overshoot.

The message from science is clear: humanity cannot continue treating the Earth as an unlimited resource. Economic systems, political decisions, industrial growth, agriculture, urbanization, and consumption patterns must operate within ecological limits.

Protecting planetary boundaries is not only an environmental responsibility — it is a moral responsibility toward future generations.

The Earth is resilient, but it is not limitless.
If humanity truly wishes to preserve a livable future, we must urgently transform how we produce, consume, govern, and coexist with nature.

The future of civilization depends on whether we choose to act now.

Source : https://www.planetaryhealthcheck.org/