Criticism and Legacy: ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ Reflects on Aid and Stereotypes

The iconic charity single «Do They Know It’s Christmas?», originally produced in 1984 by Band Aid, has resurfaced, prompting renewed discussion and criticism over its portrayal of Africa and the efficacy of its fundraising efforts. The song, assembled by musicians Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, was a response to the famine in Ethiopia and has served as a template for celebrity-led philanthropy since its inception.

While the Band Aid initiatives have raised considerable funds for Africa, including over £3 million this year facilitating aid projects in Ethiopia and other regions, the narratives perpetuated by the song remain controversial. Critics argue that lyrics such as «where nothing ever grows; no rain nor rivers flow» paint an outdated and reductive picture of the African continent.

Dawit Giorgis, former head of Ethiopia’s Relief and Rehabilitation Commission in 1984, expressed understanding of the campaign’s life-saving impact but also highlighted the song’s inaccuracies. «It was so untrue and so distorted,» Giorgis remarked to the BBC, emphasizing Ethiopia’s Christian traditions predate British ones. «To say: ‘Do they know it’s Christmas?’ is funny, it is insulting,» he added.