10 Eye-Opening Documentaries About the Work of NGOs and Global Aid

International aid and NGOs play a vital role in addressing global challenges, from humanitarian crises to development projects. Documentaries provide valuable insight into the work of these organizations and the complexities they navigate in the global landscape. Here’s a list of ten must-watch documentaries that shed light on the impact, challenges, and stories of international aid and NGOs.

1. Living in Emergency: Stories of Doctors Without Borders (2008)

This powerful documentary offers a raw look at the work of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), highlighting the challenges faced by doctors in war zones and remote regions. It follows four physicians in Liberia and Congo, providing a frontline perspective on global medical aid.

2. Poverty, Inc. (2014)

An eye-opening documentary that critically examines the global aid industry, questioning the long-term impact of charitable organizations. It highlights the unintended consequences of aid and urges for a rethinking of development strategies, sparking debate on the best ways to lift countries out of poverty.

3. The White Helmets (2016)

This Oscar-winning short documentary follows the daily lives of the White Helmets, a volunteer rescue group operating in Syria amidst the civil war. It shows the brave humanitarian efforts carried out in one of the world's most dangerous environments, highlighting the dedication and risks faced by NGOs in conflict zones.

4. He Named Me Malala (2015)

This documentary tells the story of Malala Yousafzai, who became a global advocate for girls’ education after surviving a Taliban attack. While focusing on Malala’s personal journey, the film also highlights the work of NGOs in education and the role of advocacy in global human rights.

5. God Grew Tired of Us (2006)

A moving documentary that follows the journey of three Sudanese "Lost Boys" who were displaced by war and spent years in refugee camps before being resettled in the United States. The film highlights the work of NGOs in providing humanitarian assistance and resettlement support for refugees.

6. Fire in the Blood (2012)

This gripping documentary exposes the fight against pharmaceutical companies that blocked access to low-cost AIDS drugs for developing countries. It showcases the role of advocacy groups and NGOs in combating unjust systems and ensuring life-saving medicines are accessible to those in need.

7. Salam Neighbor (2015)

Filmed in the Za’atari refugee camp in Jordan, this documentary provides an in-depth look at the Syrian refugee crisis. The filmmakers live among refugees, offering a firsthand account of the conditions and the essential role of NGOs and international agencies in delivering aid to displaced populations.

8. The Act of Killing (2012)

Although not directly about NGOs, this chilling documentary on the Indonesian genocide highlights the role of human rights organizations in exposing war crimes and supporting justice for survivors. It underscores the broader role of advocacy NGOs in addressing human rights abuses.

9. Give Us the Money (2012)

Part of the “Why Poverty?” series, this documentary focuses on the role of celebrities like Bob Geldof and Bono in raising awareness for global poverty and how their efforts have influenced international aid policies. It examines the intersection of media, NGOs, and advocacy in driving political change.

10. The True Cost (2015)

This documentary looks at the human and environmental costs of the global fashion industry, revealing the exploitation of garment workers in developing countries. It also highlights the work of various NGOs in advocating for ethical fashion and workers' rights, shedding light on the global interconnectedness of consumerism and social justice.

Conclusion

These ten documentaries provide deep insights into the critical work being done by international aid organizations and NGOs. They offer both inspiration and critical perspectives, showing the successes, challenges, and importance of global aid efforts in addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues.