As part of Global Voices’ fundraising challenge campaign called “Behind the Story,” we will feature 30 contributors in 30 days. In this series, we ask each contributor about a particular story they have written and why working on it mattered to them. These reflections from these contributors remind us why it is important to ensure that the Global Voices Newsroom is sustainable.

In this insight, Kelly Chaib De Mares from Colombia shares thoughts on why working on the story “After a decade of constrictions, how are NGOs operating in Azerbaijan?” was especially meaningful.

The restrictions on NGOs in Azerbaijan stem from the political sphere, often overlooking the harm caused to social causes. I am proud of having written this story because it allowed me to highlight the resilience of those who continue helping others through their organizations and social enterprises despite the restrictive laws in Baku.

Global Voices is a platform that provides a space for our community to share stories and perspectives about their community and issues they care about through the accompaniment of a supportive editorial team that assists each contributor to craft their stories.

If you have gained new insights about different parts of the world by reading Global Voices stories from our contributors, please consider donating to keep these stories readily available. Your contribution will support Global Voices’ Newsroom through the end of the year.