Development and Cooperation


	Contributions from the Column Monitor Bolivia split over government plans Male circumcision reduces AIDS risk German volunteers in developing countries 81 journalists killed in 2006 Debate on impact of Paris Declaration Much remains unresolved in EPA talks Trade in blood diamonds continues US to boost the military attention it pays Africa Fewer wars and cases of genocide 02/2007		German volunteers in developing countries Germany’s Federal Government wants to give young adults between the ages of 18 and 28 the opportunity to gain experience in developing countries. It plans to set up a new voluntary service, which will be tested in a three-year pilot phase from 2008 on. The service will target people with the Abitur or comparable secondary-school qualifications. The service period will range from three to 24 months. In the medium term, 10,000 volunteer positions will be made available. The Federal Government estimates the total costs will amount to ¤70 million annually; the money will come from the budget of the Development Ministry (BMZ). According to the BMZ, the service will be conducted by private-sector and non-governmental bodies. Development agencies welcomed the initiative. Hans-Joachim Preuss, Secretary General of German Agro Action, said that through the service, young people will contribute to raising awareness of the fight against poverty and hunger and, not least, of understanding between nations. Michael Steeb, chairman of the Arbeitskreis Lernen und Helfen in Übersee e. V. (Learning and Assisting Overseas Association), said that the public funds pledged would also create opportunities for disadvantaged youth and women. Until now, voluntary service in developing countries has only been possible for some men as part of the civilian service conscientious objectors to the military draft are obliged to do. Otherwise, voluntary service went along with enormous costs. EIRENE, the International Christian Service for Peace, appealed to the Federal Government to make sure the service will be of high quality. In its view, the number of 10,000 volunteers sounds impressive, but quality should come before quantity, as otherwise the programme might turn out to be counterproductive and even burden people in developing countries. According to the BMZ, the service will enjoy expert and educational support. (ell)