10 Ethical International Volunteer Opportunities You Can Trust
Volunteering abroad might sound like a noble and fulfilling adventure, but it’s important to look beyond surface-level marketing and social media “clout”. While the intention to help others is commendable, volunteering abroad can sometimes do more harm than good. As a United Nations staff member who has been involved in humanitarian work, I want to share a personal reflection. In my teens, I went on several international volunteer trips, including working in orphanages. Looking back, I realize I didn’t fully understand the complexities of what I was participating in. I now see that my efforts didn’t contribute to real change, even though it made me feel good at the time. In fact, I saw my volunteer fee funnelled into the orphanage directors pocket, as the children slept on urine-stained mattresses and had distended stomachs. This is why it’s so important to critically examine voluntourism and its impact.. Below, I’ve highlighted ten ethical international volunteer programs that you can trust to make a positive difference.
1. United Nations Volunteers (UNV) Program
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program offers individuals the chance to contribute to global development, peacebuilding, and humanitarian efforts. As part of the UN’s global initiatives, UNV volunteers work on critical issues such as poverty reduction, climate change, and human rights. The program ensures that volunteers’ contributions align with sustainable development goals (SDGs) and that they are supported with training and a structured volunteer experience.
2. American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is one of the most recognized organizations globally for its disaster relief efforts and humanitarian work. They offer a variety of international volunteering opportunities, particularly in disaster response, health, and recovery. Volunteers can get involved in projects that promote health and wellness, provide emergency relief, and support vulnerable populations in crisis situations.
3. WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms)
WWOOF is a unique program that connects volunteers with organic farms around the world. In exchange for a place to stay and food, volunteers help with tasks related to sustainable farming, organic agriculture, and environmental conservation. This is a perfect opportunity for those interested in working with nature and contributing to sustainable agriculture practices. It’s a truly immersive experience that benefits both volunteers and local farming communities.
4. Peace Corps
The Peace Corps is a U.S. government program that has been fostering global understanding and offering volunteer opportunities for over 60 years. Volunteers work in areas such as education, health, agriculture, and community development, with a focus on sustainability and long-term impact. The Peace Corps operates in over 60 countries, providing individuals with the chance to make a lasting difference while learning about new cultures.
5. Cuso International
Cuso International works to improve the lives of people in developing countries through international volunteering. Volunteers with Cuso International engage in projects that focus on health, education, economic development, and human rights. The organization prioritizes partnerships with local communities to ensure their development efforts are community-driven and sustainable.
6. Australia Volunteers International (AVI)
Australia Volunteers International (AVI) offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities in sectors such as education, health, and community development. AVI partners with organizations in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific to provide volunteers with opportunities that help improve local livelihoods and contribute to long-term development. Volunteers receive extensive support, training, and preparation for their roles.
7. Mercy Volunteer Corps
Mercy Volunteer Corps provides individuals with the chance to serve in the U.S. and abroad in a variety of community-based roles, with a focus on social justice, healthcare, and education. Volunteers live simply, working alongside people in need while fostering compassion and respect. Mercy Volunteer Corps operates in multiple countries, including the U.S., and emphasizes sustainable community development.
8. VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas)
VSO is one of the leading development organizations that brings skilled volunteers to work alongside local people to tackle poverty and inequality. VSO’s volunteers are placed in areas like healthcare, education, and economic development, helping to strengthen local communities and create sustainable change. Volunteers with VSO work closely with local organizations to ensure their efforts are culturally sensitive and impactful.
9. Global Vision International (GVI)
Global Vision International (GVI) offers ethical volunteer opportunities in a variety of fields, including conservation, wildlife protection, education, and community development. GVI’s projects are designed to create sustainable impact and empower local communities. They ensure that their programs benefit both volunteers and the communities they serve by focusing on ethical practices and long-term positive outcomes.
10. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) offers volunteer opportunities in humanitarian aid and disaster relief across the globe. Volunteers support relief efforts in emergencies, provide aid to displaced populations, and assist with health initiatives. As a globally recognized humanitarian network, the IFRC focuses on building community resilience and improving conditions in vulnerable regions.
Looking for more resources on ethical international volunteering?
- A Comprehensive Guide to the United Nations Volunteers Program (UNV)
- 10 Reasons NOT to Volunteer Abroad
- Humanitarian CV / Resume Advice and Examples
- I strongly recommend reading Jayne Craven’s Reality Check on International Volunteering before committing to a placement. She sheds light on some of the unfortunate realities of many volunteer opportunities, including the problematic “saviour complex” mentality.
Looking for more humanitarian aid related resources? Explore The Global Humanitarian Blog.
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Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.