Service Civil International

Solidarity with refugees in Serbia

Even though this not anymore the focus of international media, the situation of refugees and displaced persons in Serbia as well as throughout the whole so-called Western Balkans route is still as dramatic as before, with more than 4000 people stranded alone in Serbia, with fewer or no possibilities to continue their journey or receive international protection in the country.

Volunteers' Center of Vojvodina  (the Serbian branch of SCI) has been engaged since the peak of the refugees' presences in awareness-raising campaigns and initiatives aimed at informing the Serbian population as well international partners and other SCI members about the situation related to refugees in the country through events, campaigns, collection of donations, field trips to the borders, assessment of needs and cooperation with local organizations. One of the main channels we use is the blog Balkan Steps , where we collect news, stories, events and witnesses related to refugee issue in the Balkans and the world.

This summer, thanks to the Branching out project, we can provide international volunteers with the opportunity to spend one week in Serbia to know more about  the realities of asylum-seekers, refugees and displaced people as well as contribute to their well being, education and inclusion.

Volunteers will cook meals for the refugee population living in camps (though entering the camp will not be possible) as well as organize leisure activities in The Workshop (an educational center that serves the refugee population) and attend study sessions  and field trips on the topic.

This camp is open for 6 participants that should be interested in the refugee issues as well as willing to learn more about how civil society and individuals can support the improvement of the position of refugees, asylum-seekers, migrants and displaced persons at their destinations and in transit countries.

Volunteers can apply through the SCI database, keeping in mind that the workcamp will last from the 1st to the 9th of July and that the application requires a motivational letter.