The Many Faces of Humanitarian Aid

    In Crisis Caravan, Polman's has a few main points concerning pitfalls of humanitarian aid programs. First and foremost is the militarization of the aid process. While those involved may think they are doing a good deed, they are oftentimes interfering with political affairs in the countries they are trying to help. An article by The National elaborates on what is meant by this:  "...she claims that warlords have learned how to control and exploit humanitarian aid flows, using supplies to keep their followers happy - or under control - while ensuring their opponents remain cut off." 

The intermingling of military and "neutral" NGOs/humanitarian aid programs can stir up political problems in the destination country, which can pose potential safety issues for all parties involved. 

    In addition, she stresses the inefficient usage of donor dollars, and some of the frivolous things these organizations supply rather than basic essentials.

    Lastly, she discusses the relative inexperience of those recruited to work for these orgs. Most fields require specific degrees and/or rigorous training in order to get a job, but the NGO industry is generally needy for help, and hires a lot of under-qualified workers.
 
    "Aid organizations are businesses dressed up like Mother Teresa." This statement - which in particular, is very tongue-in-cheek in nature - implies that there are multiple sides (often with sinister, alternative motives) to these types of aid organizations. This is contrary to the "benevolence-focused" image projected by many organizations via their marketing, as well as the media. In reality, however, aid organizations are largely business (some might argue, "revenue," more specifically) -driven. An recent extreme case is the Red Cross scandal concerning misallocated funds that occurred earlier this year.

This online flyer urged the public to donate to help humanitarian efforts in Haiti earlier this year. At the end of the campaign, $500M was raised; however, only six houses were built in Haiti with this money.

    Humanitarian aid programs/organizations were founded with great intentions in mind. However, it is easy to lose track of the primary agendas, and become inefficient with managing the funds flowing in. Watchdog journalism, including professionals as well as ordinary citizens versus social media, has ensured that, more than ever, organizations doing public work are being kept accountable more than ever, which is a great thing.

    Also a product of increased technology in the media, is the accessibility of a wealth of information on these organizations. Citizens wanting to contribute to these causes are able to research the legitimacy of the company they are considering donating to.

    As governments supply the majority of international humanitarian and relief aid, their biggest responsibility is to ensure that the money apportioned for these causes is justly and appropriately distributed.