The Ecumenical Volunteers Programme
The Ecumenical Volunteers Programme enables young adults to undertake nine to twelve months of international voluntary work in social, development or church-related projects, either abroad or in Germany.
Part of a global network
The programme is coordinated by the Evangelical Mission in Solidarity (EMS), aninternational network of churches and organisations with partner countries across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. It brings people together across national borders and creates spaces for encounter, exchange and mutual learning.
Through intercultural exchange, volunteers learn alongside people from diverse backgrounds. They contribute actively, share experiences and engage with questions of global justice. In this way, the programme encourages perspectives and experiences that continue to have an impact far beyond the period of service.
The volunteer service is part of the development policy funding programme “weltwärts“ and is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
What to expect from voluntary service
Volunteering means becoming part of a new everyday life. You will get to know new people, support your placement organisation and find your way in an environment that may feel unfamiliar at first.
You will take on tasks suited to your skills and gain practical experience in an international context. At the same time, new perspectives will open up to you. You will live and work alongside people from different backgrounds and gain insight into their everyday realities.
It is not only about the work itself, but also about life on the ground, new routines, unfamiliar situations and meaningful encounters.
Throughout your placement, you will receive support and take part in seminars. These offer space to reflect on your experiences and make sense of what you are learning.
What makes this international exchange so special
The voluntary service is embedded in an international network and supported by a wide range of partnerships. It is shaped collaboratively by people from different countries and backgrounds.
Through this exchange, new perspectives emerge. Experiences are shared, differences and common ground become visible, and mutual understanding grows.
International exchange brings people together – and goes both ways.
“I wanted to learn not just from books, but with all my senses. I wanted to meet people, experience their daily lives, and understand what unites and divides us.“
Lea, assignment in India
Exchange directions in voluntary service
The Ecumenical Volunteers Programme offers two exchange directions. If you live in Germany, you can take part in the North-South exchange and volunteer in a project within a partner country. If you come from a partner country and would like to get involved in Germany, the South-North exchange is open to you. Both pathways are based on mutual learning and partnership on equal terms.
Which programme is right for you depends on where you currently live.
Select the option that suits you on the map and discover more about your opportunities in voluntary service.
Requirements for voluntary service
To take part in the voluntary service, you should be between 18 and 28 years old and have an interest in other ways of life. Openness, a sense of responsibility and a willingness to embrace new experiences are especially important.
The placement usually lasts nine to twelve months. During this time, you will work in a placement organisation and be supported through seminars and by an experienced team.
You can find further information about the voluntary service on the pages for the individual exchange directions.
“I learnt the most from my encounters. Suddenly, I saw many things, including myself, in a different light.”
Ernest, assignment in India
Support and preparation
Before you begin your voluntary service, you will receive thorough preparation. In workshops, you will explore the context of your placement and get to know the other volunteers.
We will also support you throughout your international voluntary service. You will have contact persons both on site and behind the scenes who will accompany you and be available whenever questions arise.
Seminars and opportunities for exchange give you the space to reflect on your experiences and make sense of what you are learning. You will not be left on your own, but be part of a supportive community throughout your journey.
