Reflexivity, coloniality and Do No Harm: thoughts on the subjectivity of aid workers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21153/thl2024art2053Keywords:
Do No Harm, positionality, reflexivity, colonialityAbstract
This working paper is a reflection on how fostering the practices of individual and institutional positionality and reflexivity could improve the effectiveness of the Do No Harm approach, and act as a trigger for a reflection on the coloniality embedded in aid work. More specifically, it looks at the impact that the recognition of aid workers’ subjectivity is having on the application of the Do No Harm approach and how this could lead to deeper questioning of colonial practices, dynamics, and principles. In the first part I introduce the concepts of positionality, reflexivity and coloniality, and I clarify my standpoint. I then recall the story of Do No Harm, dig through its various interpretations, and identify the main streams, pausing on the intersection between the present reflection on aid workers’ subjectivity and the use of the Do No Harm approach. In the following section I explore positionality and reflexivity as tools that can help to challenge some of the colonial assumptions which are at the foundation of our sector, giving an example through the analysis of the principle of neutrality. Finally, I give suggestions for the application of positionality and reflexivity in humanitarian and development settings.
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