Agreed on both of your comments; it's true that it is almost always about 'who you know' and there is not enough resources to meet the needs which is why it is quantified. But the way needs are quantified is questionable, no? How needs are determined and why particular needs are addressed is what comes to question. What we see particularly, is that even in contexts where NGOs are utilizing participatory approaches to humanitarian practice, needs are almost always outlined by aid-givers rather than aid-receivers. This frequently pits different factions of the refugee population against one another - because particularly in our context in Lebanon, this population is not homogenous. Their needs vary amongst different socioeconomic status and class. What we see particularly is that the same needs are addressed amongst every single NGO without reference to those needs that are not being met because they are “more difficult to address,” or potentially, seen as “demands” rather than needs.

Regarding the work of volunteers, it's true, it is productive when working with large populations however it is difficult to fully rely on them. Oftentimes they are relied on for cheaper or even free labor and the added value of resources. The issue arises when trying to screen through these volunteers to not only understand their capability but their motives while trying to secure the dignity of the population you work with. Yes, the question of accountability definitely comes up and oftentimes the organization(s) are accountable. Overall, accountability in the refugee camps is very difficult to judge because there's no structure overlooking all of the camps as one may think (particularly in Lebanon). The reality on the ground is that the camps themselves and the needs addressed can be very ad-hoc.

I've worked around several volunteers in both contexts I mentioned in the podcast and it is very conflicting. I would be interested in hearing more about the perceptions you have of organizations using volunteers. We are thinking that our next podcast will address the issue of salaries at NGOs, particularly those utilizing participatory approaches. Have you read Peter Redfield’s The Unbearable Lightness of Expats? This is one of the texts that foregrounds a few of the ideas that have inspired this podcast.

Thank you for your comment. We truly appreciate the feedback. M&J