How we are judged

What makes us British? I am in doubt that one of the most inspiring things is our generosity. As a nation, we are first to put our hands in our pockets for causes both at home and abroad. I know more than most, having organised yet another successful appeal for flood victims in South Asia and Bangladesh. It never ceases to amaze me how people in this country continue to find new and different ways to get involved to raise money for countless causes. That’s what makes me proud to be British yet I am also sensing a change in the mood of many which may test our individual and collective resolves.

Natural disasters in places like Bangladesh are becoming ever more frequent. The world is rapidly changing as is the climate and this will bring new challenges and moral dilemmas for us all. We could all be forgiven for feeling just slightly overburdened by the frequency of appeals. One of the most frequent questions at the forefront of people’s minds when donating to causes abroad is whether the monies raised get to those who need it. It’s a valid and legitimate concern given that there are obvious governance issues in some of these countries. However, it should never deter us from extending our generosity to those who neither have an alternative source or answers to the questions we harbour.

Places like Bangladesh are and remain at the mercy of the elements. It is predicted that a third of the country will be under water by 2050. This is the harsh reality facing millions over there. Doing nothing is not the British way. Our country has been the standard bearer when responding to a crisis or a disaster. We must never assume that we are being taken advantage of because people readily look at our direction for help. We are judged as a nation and as people by the way we stand by those who are less fortunate. For all the problems and all the concerns here at home, I am confident we are still judged well abroad.