What is volunteering ?

Volunteering refers to a voluntary and unpaid commitment by an individual who chooses to dedicate part of their time and energy to a cause, organization, or project, usually for social, humanitarian, or environmental purposes. Volunteers often engage in activities aimed at helping others, supporting community initiatives, or promoting collective values, without expecting financial compensation. Volunteering can take various forms, from assisting people in need to participating in international solidarity projects, as well as activities within local associations.

What is ESC ? 

The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is an initiative launched by the European Union to encourage young people to engage in volunteering and solidarity activities across Europe. Its main goal is to provide opportunities for young people (aged 18 to 30) to contribute to society by participating in projects that address social, environmental, and community challenges. The program supports both voluntary and paid positions in areas such as education, health, social services, culture, and environmental protection.Participants in the ESC gain valuable experience, develop personal and professional skills, and promote social cohesion within European communities. The program is designed to create positive impacts, both for the volunteers and for the communities they serve, while strengthening the sense The European Solidarity Corps is part of the EU's broader efforts to empower youth and foster cross-border cooperation.

"Sustainable Impact of European Volunteering: Against Voluntourism"

European volunteering has a real impact on local populations because it is based on long-term solidarity projects, carried out in collaboration with the communities themselves. Unlike voluntourism, which involves short-term volunteering experiences often motivated by tourism aspects and where the impact on local communities can be limited, European volunteering aims to address concrete and sustainable needs. Volunteers work on projects that support local initiatives, respecting the priorities of the residents and fostering genuine cooperation. This approach helps build strong connections, strengthen local capacities, and promote positive change that goes beyond just temporary intervention.

What about my experience ? 

I have been volunteering in Slovakia for 5 months now, and so far it has been a great and meaningful experiment. I always wanted to travel and to live in another country, but I didn’t want to do it for touristic reasons. Thanks to ESC program I am learning and discovering a new culture by being actively involved into a local organisation in Bratislava. Meeting people here has been very enriching in many ways, that I can benefit in my personal and professional life. 

In conclusion, ethical volunteering, particularly through initiatives like the European Solidarity Corps, offers a valuable opportunity for young people to make a tangible difference in communities across Europe. By focusing on long-term, community-driven projects, volunteers can help address real social and environmental challenges, fostering sustainable change. Unlike voluntourism, which often prioritizes personal gain over meaningful impact, ESC ensures that volunteering is rooted in cooperation, respect for local needs, and mutual growth. For those seeking to travel and experience new cultures in a truly impactful way, engaging in ethical volunteering is a powerful way to contribute to society while gaining invaluable life and professional experiences. As we move forward, it is essential to continue promoting volunteering that genuinely empowers both the volunteer and the community they serve, making a lasting difference in the world.

Text a fotka: Zoe Guicquero

Zoe je dobrovoľníčkou programu Európskej komisie Európsky zbor solidarity na dobrovoľníckom projekte
v organizácii Cirkuskus pod koordináciou Bratislavského dobrovoľníckeho centra. Projekt bol podporený Európskou úniou.