Ethical considerations in community engagement: A literature review of practices in Nigerian NGOs
1 Independent Researcher, Illinois, USA.
2 SAMFAD Initiative, Johannesburg, South Africa.
3 Independent Researcher, Lagos, Nigeria.
4 Grotius Centre for International Legal Studies, Faculty of Law, Leiden, University, the Netherlands.
5 Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa, Nigeria.
6 Independent Researcher, Nigeria.
7 Independent Researcher, United Kingdom.
Review Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2023, 20(03), 384–400
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2023.20.3.2429
Publication history:
Received on 18 October 2023; revised on XX November 2023; accepted on 27 November 2023
Abstract:
This paper delves into the multifaceted realm of sustainable community development in Nigeria, with a keen focus on the ethical implications of non-governmental organizations' (NGOs) interventions. The primary aim was to discern the role of NGOs in fostering sustainable community development, especially in the Niger Delta region, a hotspot for oil exploration with its attendant environmental and socio-economic challenges. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study examined the historical context, the socio-economic landscape, and the environmental degradation resulting from oil activities. The methods employed involved a critical analysis of existing literature, supplemented by case studies and empirical data. Results highlighted the pivotal role of NGOs in addressing the challenges faced by communities in the Niger Delta. However, the ethical dimensions of their interventions raised pertinent questions about sustainability, the nature of their engagement, and the broader socio-political implications. The study underscored the concept of reciprocal responsibility, emphasizing the importance of co-created solutions and active community participation. In conclusion, while NGOs have made significant strides in community development, the ethical foundation of their initiatives determines their lasting impact. Recommendations include fostering informed consent, protecting vulnerable populations, nurturing genuine community partnerships, and prioritizing research into emerging ethical considerations. The paper paves the way for a more ethically grounded approach to community development, ensuring that interventions resonate with the aspirations and well-being of the communities they serve.
Keywords:
Sustainable community development; NGOs; Niger Delta; Ethical implications; Reciprocal responsibility
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Copyright © 2023 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0