I’ve come across countless charity campaigns over the years, and one thing that often catches my eye is how vulnerable people—especially children—are portrayed. It’s as if their pain and suffering become tools to push for donations, and while the intent might be to help, there’s a serious issue that gets overlooked: their dignity.
I remember one campaign vividly. It was for a young boy in Pakistan who had lost his parents in the last year's floods. Just two days after this tragedy, he was made to stand in front of a camera, tears streaming down his face, while the organizer detailed every heart-wrenching aspect of his loss. The boy stood there, weeping, with no one offering him comfort. It was all for the sake of gaining donors' sympathy. Yes, the organizer likely meant well, but was it really necessary to make that small child relive his trauma and pain just to raise funds?
And that’s not an isolated case. I’ve seen images of kids without proper clothing and sometimes half naked, visibly ashamed of how they’re being portrayed. There was even a video of food aid being distributed to refugee children, where one scene showed aid workers teasingly pulling back the food as if it were a game. For those kids, who might have waited months for that meal, it wasn’t a game.
We need to be more mindful when helping those in need. It’s about more than just sending aid—it’s about protecting their dignity while helping them. Imagine if you were in their position and a charity organization took pictures of your child in the same condition and shared them worldwide. Would you be okay with that?
Some might say these images are necessary to get donors to act. But is there really no better way? Instead of showing children in despair, why not show them walking happily to school, no longer working in factories? Donors today are more thoughtful. They want to see the hope their contributions create—the potential for a better future—not just scenes of suffering. I strongly believe it's time for charities to stop using emotional manipulation. A powerful quote from a former refugee in Rwanda perfectly sums it up: “They take pictures of our pain.” This speaks volumes—too often, fundraising highlights suffering rather than respecting the dignity of the recipient and showcasing their potential. Yes, in urgent crises like earthquakes, the reality must be shared. But can’t we do it in a way that preserves the dignity of those we aim to help?
This brings to mind the following verse from the Quran:
"Believers! Do not nullify your acts of charity by stressing your benevolence and causing hurt...." (2:264)
Dignity is a fundamental right for everyone, including children:
"We have bestowed dignity on the children of Adam and conferred upon them special favors above much of Our creation." (17:70)
To all donors—if you ever come across troubling images or videos, don’t just scroll past them. Speak up. Voice your concerns to the charity. In my experience, most ethical organizations are receptive and will listen and take action when concerns are raised. Let’s hold each other accountable and ensure that our charitable efforts uplift, rather than degrade.
We know better. So let’s do better.
Thank you for taking the time to reflect on this important issue. Let’s continue working towards a charitable world that uplifts and respects the dignity of those we help. With sincerity and a commitment to ethical giving, we can make a lasting impact. May our efforts always be driven by compassion and integrity. Until next time, JazakAllah Khair!
Rahimah Kashim
Practicing leader At Oktriz