Journal review. Summary of Authors’ Arguments. Coursework

JOURNAL REVIEW
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JOURNAL REVIEW
Summary of Authors’ Arguments
The authors note that the war in Syria has led to a crisis not only in providing relief to the thousands of men, women, and children fleeing their homes, but also in issues of accountability. In the wake of the problems war creates such as homelessness, the need for food, drugs, and shelter, many humanitarian organizations have sprung up. While they are doing a commendable job and helping to absorb the refugees in various camps, logistical issues arise such as language barriers, cultural conflicts, and the need to explain how billions of shillings are used. To help resolve the crises, two Christian intermediary groups help to connect locals with donors, complete the paperwork, identify needy groups, and provide aid neutrally and impartially. Therefore, the authors’ central argument is that there is a need for intermediaries between the NGOs and local support groups to bridge the gaps mentioned above.
Evidence
The authors rely on case studies from two Christian intermediary groups as they arbitrated between international groups and the local faith and church-based organizations in Lebanon and Jordan. Often, they noted that without the interventions, there were problems such as donor pressure, aid restrictions, and general misunderstandings. However, when the groups intervened, they were able to resolve the issues holistically (Kraft & Smith 2019, pp.28-30). Sometimes, the donors could not effectively communicate with those in charge. Given the massive amounts of money involved, the intermediaries facilitated the hiring of accountants, interpreters, and helped to make the process seamless and localized. In other words, they want to see the people they know delivering the services, which is what the groups do to make them comfortable. To facilitate the process, the donors use the locals who already know the people. They are more confident in the local groups because they can mobile funds and ensure people at the grassroots get the aid they need.
Four types of NGO
The article refers to four main NGO types. They are private and governmental donors, international humanitarians, national governments, and local organizations (Kraft & Smith 2019, p.25). Private donors comprise individuals who use their money to help finance humanitarian services to citizens in need. They could be wealthy or philanthropic businesspersons who have the heart to help needy people, such as the refugees in Syria. International humanitarian agencies are the most common form o...