Deeper understanding … and taking action


During your time as a volunteer you may well have been confronted with the consequences of poverty in the developing world. Perhaps you have witnessed life in a slum, child labour, prostitution, malnutrition, begging or some of the many other aspects of poverty and inequality. For most people from the developed world the first reaction to these sights is one of shock and horror, followed quickly by one of gratitude for their own more comfortable lives. It is of great importance that we go beyond this – to ask questions about why these problems exist and what can be done about them. Undoubtedly you will have realised during your placement that your service as a volunteer could not solve all the world’s problems. Instead we need to look for a longer-term involvement to continue playing a part in change. Recognising also that other factors, such as faith, play a part in motivating people to action, it is hoped that the diagram below can guide volunteer experiences towards longer-term contribution for social justice. 

 
These pages attempt to offer guidance on finding information about the causes and consequences of poverty in the developing world, and suggest ways in which you might choose to take action.

It is broadly split into a number of root causes and consequences of poverty, although this separation is clearly a little artificial; some things can be both. It is certainly not an exhaustive list – there are many other issues and campaign groups, many of which can be found on the internet.

Taking action…may involve:
•    Supporting one of the organisations mentioned below, through campaigning and/or financially
•    Volunteering
•    Raising money
•    Prayer
•    Taking/creating opportunities to tell others about these issues and action they can take (this is known as Development Education)
•    Justice and peace groups (focused on a range of issues or a single issue– such as debt or fair trade) at church, university or work