Yemen’s NGO Sector: Between.....

​ADEN, YEMEN

A new investigative report highlights a growing crisis of accountability within Yemen’s local Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). While these organizations serve as a vital lifeline for more than 30 millions people in Yemen, the report uncovers a troubling trend where lack of oversight is transforming humanitarian entities into "family-owned businesses," jeopardizing both staff welfare and aid integrity.

​The Accountability Gap

​In the heart of the world’s most complex humanitarian landscape , transparency is not a luxury—it is a requirement for survival for the most effected by war and prolonged conflict ,however, the report reveals a significant disconnect amomg those which considered avtive NGOs. While local NGOs have surged in number to implement international projects, the lack of robust data and government monitoring has created a "black box" of operations.

​Findings from the Field: Abuse of Power

​An investigation involving interviews with several managers and employees across various organizations has exposed systemic labor violations and administrative misconduct:

​Wage Theft & Intimidation: Multiple staff members reported that salaries have been withheld for over three months without clarifications despite many requests for payments. Employees who attempt to report these practices face immediate threats of termination or being "blacklisted" from the sector. Many has requested not to disclose names that may affect them not being employed.

​Nepotism vs. Professionalism: Testimony indicates that high-level decisions and recruitment are often restricted to founders and their immediate circles. This "family-company" model prioritizes loyalty over competence, undermining the core principles of charity and neutrality.

​Systemic Failure of Recourse: Currently, no dedicated unions or state-led oversight offices exist to address mass misconduct. When power is left unchecked in the hands of founders, the international relief system’s principles are fundamentally compromised.

​The Digital Solution

​The report emphasizes that technology must be the bridge to better governance. Digital platforms for real-time data sharing and automated reporting can significantly reduce human bias and administrative corruption. By leveraging tech, Yemeni organizations can rebuild trust with international donors and ensure that aid reaches its intended beneficiaries without leakage.

​A Call to Action

​To ensure sustainable growth and the protection of the humanitarian ecosystem in Yemen, the report recommends:

​Independent Audits: Mandatory financial and operational audits conducted by third-party firms.

​Protected Whistleblowing: The establishment of secure channels for employees and beneficiaries to report grievances directly to international donors and government bodies without fear of retaliation.

​Institutional Governance: Moving beyond founder-led structures to established boards of directors with independent oversight powers.

​Conclusion

​Transparency and accountability are the only paths to a resilient Yemeni civil society. Donors must play a proactive role in enforcing these standards. Without immediate reform, the very organizations meant to alleviate suffering risk becoming part of the systemic challenges facing the nation.

About the Author: Mazen Saif

​Mazen Saif is the CEO of Atyaf for Studies and Management Consulting and a seasoned humanitarian leader with over 14 years of experience driving international NGO programs in Yemen. A specialist in the relief and development sector, he has held numerous senior positions, including Program Manager, developing a profound mastery of the Yemeni local context.

​Mazen is a certified PMD Pro professional and holds a Master’s in Project Management, with a research focus specifically on Yemeni NGO projects. Beyond strategic leadership, he is a recognized expert in capacity building, dedicated to empowering local organizations and leading high-impact interventions that bridge the gap between academic theory and field reality.

To contact the aouther :

Email: mazen.saif@atyafye.com

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