“Typically, other people’s problems seem simpler, uncomplicated and easier to solve than those of one’s own society. In this context, the decontextualized hunger and homelessness in Haiti, Cambodia or Vietnam is an easy moral choice. The burdens of manic consumption and unabated careerism are not easily pitied as crumbling shanties and begging babies. Unlike the problems of other societies, the failing inner-city schools in Chicago or the haplessness of those living on the fringes in Detroit is connected to larger political narratives. In simple terms, the lack of knowledge of other cultures makes them easier to help.” – Rafia Zakaria
The definition of development evolves daily as society progresses and our needs become more complex. Consequently, the Western perspective on development can be inherently contentious.
During my immersive university program in Cambodia, I wrote a reflection on my experience staying in a small village on the island of Koh Pdao, in Kratie Province. I wish to expand on those reflections and insights here.
Our home-stay aimed to immerse us in a different culture without imposing external perspectives or interference. Such immersive experiences are crucial for development work and responsible travel, allowing us to understand the local culture deeply and give voice to the locals who are often overlooked in tourism and Western development initiatives.
While I still question whether our presence imposed burdens on the locals, it is important to recognise that the initiative was run by the locals and provided income for many families. It was a learning experience for all of us, exposing us to cultural differences and barriers we might not have encountered otherwise.
Each of us was hosted by a local family who, despite language barriers and our lack of cultural understanding, welcomed us with great generosity. However, it is important to acknowledge that our presence did create some impositions for our own benefit.
Before our home-stay on Koh Pdao, I had an immediate pre-judgment that their ‘basic’ way of life would hinder their progress as a society. Living without running water or electricity, we experienced a lifestyle vastly different from our own comforts and routines. This initially terrified me and led me to quickly pass judgment. However, spending time immersed in the village, my naïve values were profoundly challenged and transformed.
These pre-judgments stemmed from my perspective—a common reaction when stepping out of one’s comfort zone. However, it’s easy to revert to familiar views and fail to respect and appreciate cultural differences. This often leads to irresponsible tourism and the imposition of colonial values on vulnerable communities.
During my experience, I reconsidered my judgment and decided to challenge my preconceived notions. This shift in perspective taught me more about myself than about ‘fixing’ the island.
Flipping Perspectives
To understand development more effectively, we need to ‘flip the perspective’. If we consider ourselves as the ‘developing’ and communities like Koh Pdao as ‘developed’, we would see a different narrative.
Although the village faces significant development challenges, approaching it with the perspective that we are the ones learning from these communities can foster a better understanding and collaboration. It’s crucial to address their needs based on their priorities, not our assumptions. Self-determination is key to alleviating poverty and fostering positive development in under-resourced communities.
This perspective highlights issues of privilege, entitlement, and ignorance. Reflecting on my earlier assumptions, I realised the stark contrast between what I expected and what I learned through immersion.
What I Expected vs. What I Learned
During our stay, we met the village Chief, an elderly man who had lived through significant historical events, including the Pol Pot regime. We engaged in discussions about the island’s politics and development needs.
One question that stood out was what development initiatives he desired for his community. We anticipated his answer would involve improvements in healthcare or education, given the island’s lack of running water and electricity. To our surprise, the Chief prioritised better roads and bridges.
This response shocked me, not because of the Chief’s answer but because of my own assumptions. As a final-year International Development student, I was embarrassed by my ignorance. I had assumed I knew what was best, overlooking the actual needs of the community.
My initial response was driven by privilege and entitlement, forgetting that what benefits us may not necessarily benefit others. Proper infrastructure, like roads and bridges, is essential for accessing healthcare and education—needs I had overlooked.
This experience reminded me that Western dominance often leads to imposing assumptions and neglecting the genuine needs of vulnerable communities. These assumptions, based on our own experiences, can be far more harmful than beneficial.
To Dam or Not to Dam?
Consider the introduction of electricity on the island—a luxury and necessity in the West, but something the community has lived without comfortably. If foreign intervention imposed electricity on the island, the environmental and social impacts could outweigh the benefits. Building a dam for electricity might disrupt local ecosystems and lead to flooding, which the community has never experienced.
Analysing such examples reveals the harm in assuming and implementing changes without consulting the community. These assumptions often stem from colonial tendencies, and listening to Indigenous voices like those from Koh Pdao can provide more accurate solutions.
Unacceptable for One, Unacceptable for All
We should also consider whether it would be acceptable if outsiders made changes to our own homes without consultation. If this idea feels uncomfortable, it is equally unacceptable to impose changes on other communities.
This concept applies to unskilled volunteer tourism as well. While intentions may be good, these efforts often cause more harm than benefit, driven by a desire for self-gratification rather than genuine contribution.
Ultimately, development requires communication, understanding, and respect for the needs of the community, free from Western assumptions. The right solutions come from listening to those directly affected, not from imposing our views or projects.
For more information about the impacts of volunteer tourism, please follow the link below: https://www.useyourprivilegeforgood.com/checklist
Let’s start to challenge the definition and narrative of development and empower those who are in the middle of it.
When we know better, we can do better; it’s as simple as that.
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