Challenges NGOs Face in Restricted Regions

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a critical role in addressing humanitarian crises, promoting human rights, and delivering aid in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. However, operating in restricted or heavily censored areas presents unique and often overwhelming challenges that can hinder their ability to fulfill their missions. These challenges are not just logistical but also deeply tied to digital access, security, and the ability to communicate freely—elements that are foundational to modern NGO work.

One of the most pervasive issues is internet censorship. Many restricted regions implement strict controls over online content, blocking access to international news outlets, humanitarian databases, and even basic communication tools. For example, in regions where governments view external NGOs with suspicion, platforms like Gmail, WhatsApp, or cloud storage services (critical for sharing reports and coordinating aid) may be blocked entirely. This leaves NGOs struggling to access real-time information about local needs, such as food shortages, disease outbreaks, or conflict zones, which are essential for deploying resources effectively.

Surveillance is another significant threat. In restricted regions, governments often monitor online activities closely, tracking the digital footprints of NGOs, their staff, and even beneficiaries. This surveillance can range from monitoring email communications to tracking social media interactions, putting both NGO workers and the communities they serve at risk. For instance, if an NGO is working to document human rights abuses, staff members could face retaliation if their research or communications are intercepted. Beneficiaries, too, may be hesitant to share sensitive information (such as their need for aid or experiences of oppression) if they fear their data will be accessed by authorities.

Data privacy and security are also major concerns. NGOs handle vast amounts of sensitive data, including beneficiary records, donor information, and internal strategic plans. In regions with weak data protection laws—or where governments actively seek to access such data—storing or transmitting this information without proper safeguards can lead to leaks, identity theft, or even legal repercussions. For example, a database of displaced persons’ locations, if exposed, could result in targeted harassment or violence against those individuals.

Communication barriers further compound these challenges. Local partners, volunteers, and beneficiaries may rely on region-specific apps or platforms that are either blocked or monitored. NGOs need to communicate securely with these groups to coordinate aid distribution, conduct needs assessments, or provide updates on project progress. Without secure channels, misinformation can spread, or critical messages may never reach their intended recipients.

Access to local and global information is also restricted. NGOs depend on accurate, timely data to understand the ground situation—whether it’s tracking the spread of a pandemic, monitoring political developments, or accessing academic research on local health issues. In regions where search engines filter results or academic journals are blocked, NGOs are forced to make decisions based on incomplete or outdated information, which can compromise the effectiveness of their programs.

Finally, resource constraints often limit NGOs’ ability to face these challenges. Many NGOs operate on tight budgets, making it difficult to invest in expensive cybersecurity tools or dedicated IT teams. This leaves them vulnerable to censorship, surveillance, and data breaches, as they may lack the technical expertise or financial resources to implement robust solutions.

Together, these challenges create a hostile digital environment for NGOs in restricted regions, threatening their ability to operate safely, efficiently, and ethically. To overcome these barriers, NGOs need tools that can bypass censorship, protect their online identities, secure their data, and ensure reliable access to critical information. Proxies have emerged as a key solution in this regard, offering a flexible and cost-effective way to address many of these challenges head-on.

Why Proxies Are Critical for NGO Operations

In an era where digital connectivity is the backbone of global humanitarian work, proxies have become indispensable tools for NGOs operating in restricted regions. Far more than just technical workarounds, proxies serve as lifelines that enable NGOs to navigate censorship, protect their teams and beneficiaries, and maintain the integrity of their missions. Understanding why proxies are critical requires examining their role in addressing the specific challenges outlined earlier—from bypassing blocks to securing sensitive data.

First and foremost, proxies are essential for bypassing internet censorship. By routing internet traffic through an intermediary server located in a different region, proxies mask the user’s original IP address and make it appear as though they are accessing the internet from a location with unrestricted access. This allows NGOs to circumvent firewalls, content filters, and geo-blocks that would otherwise prevent them from accessing critical resources. For example, an NGO working in a region where international news sites are blocked can use a proxy with an IP address from a neighboring country to read global headlines and stay informed about developments that may impact their operations.

Proxies also play a vital role in protecting the identity and safety of NGO staff and partners. In regions where online activities are closely monitored, using a proxy helps anonymize internet usage by hiding the user’s real IP address and location. This is particularly important for field workers who may be conducting sensitive activities, such as documenting human rights abuses or coordinating with at-risk communities. By masking their digital footprint, proxies reduce the risk of surveillance, harassment, or retaliation against staff members and their families.

Secure data transmission is another key benefit of proxies. Many proxies encrypt data as it travels between the user’s device and the proxy server, ensuring that sensitive information—such as beneficiary records, donor details, or internal communications—cannot be intercepted by third parties. This encryption is critical for maintaining compliance with international data protection standards (like GDPR) and building trust with communities, who rely on NGOs to safeguard their personal information.

Proxies also enable NGOs to access both local and global information, which is essential for making informed decisions. For instance, a proxy with IP addresses in the target region allows NGOs to view content as local users do—accessing region-specific news sites, social media trends, or government notice that may not be available from outside the country. This local perspective helps NGOs understand the needs and concerns of the communities they serve, ensuring that their programs are culturally appropriate and responsive to real-time issues. Simultaneously, proxies with global IP coverage enable access to international resources, such as academic journals, UN reports, or best practices from other NGOs, which are often blocked in restricted regions.

Communication reliability is another area where proxies add value. In regions with unstable internet connections or frequent outages, proxies can route traffic through multiple servers, ensuring that communications remain uninterrupted. This is crucial for coordinating with local partners, updating headquarters on project progress, or responding to emergencies. For example, during a natural disaster, an NGO may need to send urgent requests for medical supplies or report on the severity of the crisis—proxies help ensure these messages reach their destination even when local networks are overloaded or intentionally disrupted.

Additionally, proxies support operational flexibility. NGOs often work across multiple regions, each with its own unique censorship rules and internet restrictions. Proxies with a diverse range of IP addresses allow NGOs to switch between locations quickly, adapting to changing conditions without disrupting their workflow. This flexibility is especially important for NGOs with global teams, as it ensures that staff in different countries can collaborate seamlessly, regardless of local internet restrictions.

Finally, proxies are a cost-effective solution for NGOs with limited resources. Unlike enterprise-grade VPNs or dedicated private networks, which can be expensive to implement and maintain, proxies offer scalable pricing models that align with NGO budgets. Many proxy providers offer pay-as-you-go plans or volume discounts, allowing NGOs to adjust their usage based on project needs without overspending. This affordability makes proxies accessible to small and medium-sized NGOs, which often lack the funding for more complex cybersecurity tools.

In summary, proxies are critical for NGO operations in restricted regions because they address the core challenges of censorship, surveillance, data security, and information access. By enabling secure, anonymous, and reliable internet access, proxies empower NGOs to operate effectively, protect their teams and beneficiaries, and fulfill their missions in even the most challenging environments. For NGOs looking to maximize their impact, choosing the right proxy solution is not just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one that can mean the difference between success and failure in the field.

Key Features to Look for in Proxies for NGOs

Selecting the right proxy solution is a critical decision for NGOs operating in restricted regions. Not all proxies are created equal, and the wrong choice can leave NGOs vulnerable to censorship, data breaches, or operational disruptions. To ensure they invest in a tool that meets their unique needs, NGOs should prioritize specific features when evaluating proxy providers. These features are designed to address the challenges of censorship, security, reliability, and cost-effectiveness—all of which are essential for successful operations in restricted regions.

Reliability and Uptime
One of the most important features for NGOs is reliability. In restricted regions, where internet access is often unstable, a proxy with high uptime ensures that operations are not interrupted. NGOs cannot afford to lose access to critical information or communication channels during emergencies, so providers with a proven track record of 99.9%+ uptime are ideal. This reliability should extend to both static and dynamic proxies, as NGOs may need to switch between IP types based on their activities (e.g., static IPs for long-term projects, dynamic IPs for short-term, high-security tasks).

Global and Regional IP Coverage
NGOs operate in diverse regions, so proxies must offer extensive global and regional IP coverage. A provider with IP addresses in 200+ countries and territories ensures that NGOs can access content from virtually any location, whether they need to view local news in a specific country or connect to a server in a neighboring region with less censorship. Regional IP diversity is particularly important, as some restricted regions block IPs from certain countries—having multiple IP options within the same region reduces the risk of being blocked.

Secure Protocols and Encryption
Security is non-negotiable for NGOs, which handle sensitive data daily. Proxies should support secure protocols like SOCKS5, HTTP, and HTTPS, which encrypt data and prevent interception. SOCKS5 is especially valuable for its ability to handle various types of traffic (including voice and video), making it ideal for secure communication tools like Zoom or Signal. Additionally, providers that offer end-to-end encryption and do not log user activity (a strict no-logs policy) ensure that NGO data remains private and protected from surveillance.

Flexible Proxy Types
NGOs have diverse needs, so a proxy provider should offer multiple proxy types to accommodate different use cases. Static proxies (with fixed IP addresses) are suitable for long-term projects that require consistent access to specific platforms (e.g., monitoring local government websites). Dynamic proxies (with rotating IP addresses) are better for high-security tasks, as they reduce the risk of being tracked or blocked. Other types, like residential proxies (which use IPs from real devices), are valuable for bypassing advanced censorship systems that detect data center IPs. A provider that offers a mix of static IPv6/32, dedicated IPv4, shared IPv4, static ISP residential, and dynamic residential proxies gives NGOs the flexibility to choose the right tool for each task.

Scalability and Cost-Effective Pricing
NGO budgets are often tight, so proxies must offer scalable pricing models that align with their needs. Static proxies with unlimited traffic (charged by plan) are cost-effective for ongoing operations, as NGOs can predict monthly expenses without worrying about overage fees. Dynamic proxies that charge by traffic (with no expiration dates) are ideal for variable or short-term projects, allowing NGOs to pay only for what they use. Providers that offer customizable plans or volume discounts further enhance affordability, ensuring that NGOs of all sizes can access the tools they need.

24/7 Customer Support
In high-pressure environments, NGOs need immediate assistance if issues arise. A proxy provider with 24/7 customer support (via live chat, email, or phone) ensures that technical problems are resolved quickly, minimizing downtime. Support teams should have expertise in working with NGOs and understanding the unique challenges of restricted regions, offering tailored solutions rather than generic troubleshooting.

Protocol Flexibility
The ability to switch protocols (e.g., from HTTP to SOCKS5) without disrupting service is another key feature. NGOs may need to adjust their proxy settings based on the task—for example, using HTTPS for secure data transfer and SOCKS5 for streaming video updates from the field. Providers that allow seamless protocol switching (for static proxies) and unlimited for dynamic proxies ensure that NGOs can adapt to changing needs without delays.

Comparison of Top Proxy Providers for NGOs
To help NGOs evaluate their options, the table below compares three leading proxy providers based on the features outlined above:

While free proxy services might seem cost-effective, they often lack security and reliability—unlike trusted providers like OwlProxy (free proxy alternatives that prioritize NGO needs). Free proxies typically have limited IP pools, slow speeds, and may log user data, putting NGOs at risk of censorship or surveillance. Investing in a reputable provider is far more valuable for NGOs, as the cost of a data breach or operational disruption far outweighs the savings of using a free service.

Protocol Flexibility and Ease of Use
NGOs often have staff with varying levels of technical expertise, so proxies must be easy to set up and use. Providers that offer user-friendly dashboards, clear documentation, and tools for quickly switching protocols (e.g., static proxies that allow protocol changes with a few clicks) reduce the burden on IT teams. For dynamic proxies, the ability to extract unlimited without technical hurdles ensures that field workers can access the proxies they need, when they need them.

Compliance with International Standards
Finally, proxies should comply with international data protection and privacy standards, such as GDPR, CCPA, or ISO 27001. This compliance ensures that NGOs are not inadvertently violating laws when handling data, which is critical for maintaining their legal status and reputation. Providers that undergo regular third-party audits further demonstrate their commitment to security and transparency.

By prioritizing these features, NGOs can select a proxy solution that not only addresses their immediate needs but also supports long-term sustainability. A provider that offers reliability, global coverage, secure protocols, flexible types, scalable pricing, and strong support will empower NGOs to operate safely and effectively in even the most restricted regions.

OwlProxy: Tailored Solutions for NGO Needs

For NGOs operating in restricted regions, finding a proxy provider that understands their unique challenges is essential. OwlProxy has emerged as a leader in this space, offering tailored solutions designed to address the specific needs of humanitarian organizations, human rights groups, and aid agencies. With a focus on reliability, security, and flexibility, OwlProxy provides the tools NGOs need to bypass censorship, protect sensitive data, and maintain operational continuity—even in the most challenging environments.

Extensive Global Coverage for Diverse Operations
One of OwlProxy’s standout features is its vast network of proxies, which includes over 50 million dynamic proxies and 10 million static proxies spanning 200+ countries and territories. This global reach ensures that NGOs can access content from virtually any region, whether they’re monitoring local news in a conflict zone, coordinating with partners in a remote village, or accessing international resources blocked by local censorship. For example, an NGO working on refugee aid in the Middle East can use OwlProxy’s static ISP residential proxies to access region-specific social media platforms and government websites, gaining insights into local policies and community needs. Simultaneously, the same NGO can switch to dynamic residential proxies with IPs from Europe to access UN reports or academic research on displacement trends—all through a single provider.

Secure Protocols and Proxy Types for Every Task
OwlProxy supports a range of secure protocols, including SOCKS5, HTTP, and HTTPS, ensuring that data remains encrypted and protected during transmission. SOCKS5, in particular, is valuable for NGOs, as it handles various types of traffic (including voice, video, and file transfers) without compromising speed or security. This makes it ideal for secure communication tools like encrypted messaging apps or video conferences with local partners. Additionally, OwlProxy offers a diverse selection of proxy types to accommodate different use cases:

• Static IPv6/32 Proxies: Ideal for long-term projects that require a consistent IP address, such as monitoring government websites or maintaining access to restricted databases. These proxies offer stability and are less likely to be flagged by censorship systems.

• Dedicated IPv4 Proxies: Provide exclusive use of an IP address, reducing the risk of being blocked due to shared usage. Perfect for sensitive tasks like handling beneficiary data or communicating with high-risk partners.

• Shared IPv4 Proxies: A cost-effective option for low-security tasks, such as general web browsing or accessing non-sensitive information. Shared proxies are ideal for NGOs with limited budgets that need basic censorship bypass.

• Static ISP Residential Proxies: Use IP addresses assigned by real internet service providers (ISPs), making them indistinguishable from regular users. These are highly effective at bypassing advanced censorship systems that block data center IPs.

• Dynamic Residential Proxies: Rotate IP addresses regularly, enhancing anonymity and reducing the risk of detection. Perfect for high-security tasks like documenting human rights abuses or accessing heavily monitored platforms.

For NGOs operating in multiple restricted regions, OwlProxy’s vast pool of 50m+ dynamic proxies and 10m+ static proxies ensures reliable, uninterrupted access, even as censorship techniques evolve.

Flexible Pricing Models Aligned with NGO Budgets
OwlProxy understands that NGOs operate on tight budgets, which is why it offers flexible pricing models designed to maximize value. Static proxies are available on a time-based, with unlimited traffic during the period—ideal for ongoing projects with consistent data needs. NGOs can choose monthly, quarterly, or annual plans, with discounts for longer commitments, making it easy to predict and manage costs. For variable or short-term projects, dynamic proxies are charged by traffic, with no expiration dates. This means NGOs can purchase a block of traffic (e.g., 100GB) and use it over weeks or months, without worrying about unused data expiring. This pay-as-you-go model is particularly valuable for emergency response teams, which may need to scale up quickly during crises and scale down during quieter periods.

Seamless Protocol Switching and Unlimited
OwlProxy’s commitment to flexibility extends to its protocol and proxy management. Static proxy users can switch between SOCKS5, HTTP, and HTTPS protocols with just a few clicks in the dashboard, eliminating the need for complex reconfigurations. This is especially useful for NGOs that use multiple tools (e.g., HTTP for web browsing, SOCKS5 for video calls) and need to adapt quickly to changing tasks. For dynamic proxies, OwlProxy allows unlimited, meaning NGOs can generate as many proxy line as needed for their projects. Whether they’re deploying a team of 10 field workers or 100 volunteers, there’s no limit to the number of they can extract—ensuring that everyone has access to the proxies they need, when they need them. This unlimited access is critical for large-scale operations, such as disaster relief efforts, where coordination across multiple teams is essential.

Strict No-Logs Policy and Data Security
Data security is a top priority for NGOs, and OwlProxy takes this responsibility seriously. The platform maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store any information about user activity, IP addresses, or data transmission. This ensures that sensitive information—such as beneficiary records, staff communications, or research data—remains private and protected from surveillance. OwlProxy also uses advanced encryption (AES-256) to secure data as it travels between the user’s device and the proxy server, preventing interception by governments, hackers, or other third parties. These security measures not only protect NGOs and their beneficiaries but also ensure compliance with international data protection laws, such as GDPR, which is critical for maintaining funding and partnerships with global organizations.

24/7 Expert Support for Critical Situations
NGO operations never sleep, which is why OwlProxy offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and phone. The support team includes experts with experience working with NGOs and understanding the unique challenges of restricted regions, ensuring that issues are resolved quickly and effectively. Whether an NGO needs help setting up proxies for a new field office, troubleshooting a connection issue during a crisis, or adjusting their plan to accommodate unexpected needs, OwlProxy’s support team is available to assist. This level of responsiveness is invaluable for NGOs, where delays in communication or access can have life-or-death consequences for the communities they serve.

Case Study: How OwlProxy Supports NGO Missions
To illustrate the impact of OwlProxy’s solutions, consider a hypothetical example: A human rights NGO operating in a region with strict internet censorship needs to document protests and government responses. Using OwlProxy’s dynamic residential proxies, the NGO’s field workers can access local social media platforms (which block data center IPs) and collect video footage and testimonies. The dynamic proxies rotate IP addresses every 10 minutes, preventing authorities from tracking their activities. Back at headquarters, researchers use static ISP residential proxies to access government websites and monitor official statements, while the communications team uses SOCKS5 proxies to securely share updates with international partners via encrypted video calls. With OwlProxy’s unlimited traffic static plan, the NGO avoids overage fees, and the no-logs policy ensures that all data remains confidential. When a sudden crackdown leads to internet shutdowns in parts of the region, the NGO uses OwlProxy’s global IP pool to route traffic through neighboring countries, maintaining communication with field workers and continuing their documentation efforts.

As of 2025, regional censorship techniques continue to evolve, making it essential for NGOs to partner with proxy providers that update their infrastructure regularly—OwlProxy’s commitment to expanding its IP pool ensures readiness for emerging challenges.

In summary, OwlProxy’s combination of global coverage, secure protocols, flexible pricing, and dedicated support makes it an ideal partner for NGOs operating in restricted regions. By tailoring its solutions to the unique needs of humanitarian organizations, OwlProxy empowers NGOs to overcome censorship, protect their teams and beneficiaries, and focus on what matters most: making a positive impact in the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Best Practices for NGOs Using Proxies

While proxies are powerful tools for NGOs operating in restricted regions, their effectiveness depends on how they are implemented and managed. Without proper practices in place, NGOs risk compromising security, wasting resources, or falling victim to censorship. To maximize the benefits of proxies and minimize risks, NGOs should follow these best practices, which cover everything from proxy selection to staff training and ongoing monitoring.

Conduct a Needs Assessment Before Choosing Proxies
Before selecting a proxy provider, NGOs should conduct a thorough needs assessment to identify their specific requirements. This assessment should consider factors like the regions they operate in (to determine required IP coverage), the types of tasks they perform (e.g., web scraping, communication, data transfer), the sensitivity of the data they handle (to determine security needs), and their budget constraints. For example, an NGO focused on human rights documentation may prioritize dynamic residential proxies with rotating IPs, while an organization providing medical aid may need static proxies for reliable access to blocked health databases. By clearly defining their needs, NGOs can select a provider and proxy types that align with their mission, avoiding unnecessary costs or gaps in functionality.

Choose the Right Proxy Type for Each Task
Different tasks require different proxy types, and NGOs should match their proxies to their activities to optimize security and performance. Static proxies are best for long-term, consistent access (e.g., monitoring local news sites daily), as their fixed IP addresses reduce the risk of being flagged by anti-bot systems. Dynamic proxies are better for high-security or one-off tasks (e.g., uploading sensitive reports), as rotating IPs enhance anonymity. Residential proxies (static or dynamic) are ideal for bypassing advanced censorship that detects data center IPs, while dedicated IPv4 proxies offer exclusivity and stability for critical operations. NGOs should create a clear protocol for which proxy type to use for each activity (e.g., “use dynamic residential proxies for social media monitoring, static ISP proxies for government website access”) to ensure consistency and reduce errors.

Implement Strong Authentication and Access Controls
Proxies are only secure if access to them is restricted to authorized personnel. NGOs should implement strong authentication measures, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) for proxy dashboard access, and unique credentials for each staff member. This prevents unauthorized use of proxies, which could lead to IP bans, data breaches, or compromise of the NGO’s operations. Access controls should also be role-based: field workers may only need access to dynamic proxies for field data collection, while headquarters staff may require access to all proxy types for research and coordination. Regular audits of access logs (where available) can help identify and revoke access for former staff or partners, ensuring that only current team members can use the proxies.

Train Staff on Proxy Usage and Security Protocols
Even the best proxies are ineffective if staff do not use them correctly. NGOs should provide comprehensive training to all team members on how to set up, use, and troubleshoot proxies. Training should cover topics like selecting the right proxy type for a task, recognizing signs of being blocked (e.g., slow speeds, error messages), and reporting issues to the IT team or proxy provider. Staff should also be educated on security best practices, such as never sharing proxy credentials, avoiding public Wi-Fi when using proxies, and logging out of proxy sessions when not in use. For NGOs with field teams in remote areas, simplified training materials (e.g., step-by-step guides, video tutorials) can help ensure that even staff with limited technical expertise can use proxies effectively.

Combine Proxies with Other Security Tools
Proxies are most effective when used as part of a layered security strategy. NGOs should combine proxies with virtual private networks (VPNs) for added encryption, especially when transmitting highly sensitive data (e.g., beneficiary records). Encrypted messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp (used with proxies to bypass blocks) can secure communications with local partners, while password managers and encrypted storage solutions protect credentials and files. For NGOs handling large datasets, adding a secure cloud service (accessed via proxies) ensures that data is stored safely and can be accessed from anywhere. This layered approach reduces the risk of a single point of failure, making it harder for censors or hackers to compromise the NGO’s operations.

Monitor Proxy Performance and Adapt to Censorship Changes
Censorship techniques in restricted regions are constantly evolving, so NGOs must monitor their proxies’ performance and adapt accordingly. This includes tracking metrics like uptime, speed, and success rates for accessing blocked content. If a proxy type or IP address is consistently blocked, NGOs should switch to a different type (e.g., from shared IPv4 to residential) or rotate to a new IP pool. Providers like OwlProxy, which regularly updates its IP network, can help NGOs stay ahead of censorship by offering fresh IPs that are less likely to be flagged. NGOs should also stay informed about regional censorship trends (e.g., new laws, blocked platforms) through sources like Freedom House or local partners, adjusting their proxy strategy proactively to maintain access.

Regularly Review and Update Proxy Policies
As an NGO’s operations grow or change, its proxy needs will evolve, so policies should be reviewed and updated regularly (at least quarterly). This review should include assessing whether current proxy types are still meeting needs, evaluating the cost-effectiveness of the pricing model, and checking for new features from the provider that could enhance security or efficiency. For example, if an NGO expands into a new region with stricter censorship, it may need to add static ISP residential proxies to its toolkit. Similarly, if a provider introduces a new protocol or pricing plan, NGOs should evaluate whether it aligns with their budget or security requirements. Regular reviews ensure that the proxy strategy remains aligned with the NGO’s mission and adapts to new challenges.

Back Up Data and Have Redundancy Plans
Even with reliable proxies, internet outages or censorship can disrupt access to critical data. NGOs should implement regular data backups (encrypted and stored securely, preferably offline or in a region with unrestricted access) to ensure that information is not lost during disruptions. Redundancy plans are also essential: NGOs should have backup proxy providers or alternative access methods (e.g., satellite internet, local SIM cards with data plans) in case their primary proxies are blocked. For example, if OwlProxy’s dynamic proxies are suddenly blocked in a region, an NGO could switch to its static IPv6 proxies or use a backup provider temporarily. Having these redundancies in place minimizes downtime and ensures that operations can continue even in the face of unexpected censorship.

Engage with the Provider for Custom Solutions
Reputable proxy providers like OwlProxy often offer custom solutions for NGOs with unique needs. NGOs should communicate openly with their provider about the challenges they face, such as accessing highly restricted regions or handling large volumes of data. Providers may be able to offer tailored IP pools, priority support, or discounted rates for humanitarian organizations. For example, an NGO working in a conflict zone with limited internet infrastructure may request proxies optimized for low-bandwidth connections, or a large international NGO could negotiate a custom enterprise plan with volume discounts. By building a partnership with their provider, NGOs can access resources and support that go beyond off-the-shelf solutions, enhancing their ability to operate effectively.

Document and Share Lessons Learned
Finally, NGOs should document their experiences with proxies—what works, what doesn’t, and how they overcame challenges—and share these lessons with other organizations. This knowledge sharing can help the broader NGO community improve their proxy strategies, especially smaller organizations with limited resources. Documentation should include case studies (e.g., “how we used dynamic proxies to upload reports during a government shutdown”), troubleshooting tips (e.g., “clearing cookies resolved our IP ban issue”), and provider reviews. Platforms like the Humanitarian Data Exchange or NGO forums are great places to share these insights, fostering collaboration and collective resilience in the face of censorship.

By following these best practices, NGOs can ensure that their proxies are used effectively, securely, and cost-efficiently, enabling them to overcome digital barriers and focus on their core mission of supporting vulnerable communities.