The Internationaler Bund (IB) criticizes the termination of the federal program “kulturweit” as well as the cuts to the international volunteer service “weltwärts.” The latter is offered by the independent provider of youth, social, and educational work itself.
People between the ages of 18 and 26 can complete a voluntary social year abroad through the “kulturweit” program, for example in cultural and educational institutions. In early March, the Federal Foreign Office and the German UNESCO Commission announced that funding would be discontinued “due to widespread budget constraints.” The development policy volunteer service “weltwärts” of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development is also facing cuts.
International volunteer services missing in the conscription debate
In the debate on the possible reintroduction of compulsory military service and alternative service models, voluntary services also play a role. It is encouraging that there is political will to expand them. However, as current cuts show, this does not apply to international volunteer services.
We call on policymakers to change course. International volunteer services provide young people with experiences outside their comfort zone. They are a valuable contribution to international understanding—and this is urgently needed, as the current global situation clearly shows.
Thiemo Fojkar, CEO of the IB
Together with a broad civil society alliance, the IB has signed a two-page position paper on the “weltwärts” program.