In practice

What is meant by international youth work? What formats are available? What do I need to know? Here you will find an overview with practical examples.

According to the Child and Youth Welfare Act, international youth work is considered a focus of youth work (see §11 para. 3 SGBVIII). International youth work is therefore part of national child and youth welfare policy, but is also linked to international relations with other countries, as in earlier times it had a strong focus on the goal of international understanding and, particularly after the Second World War, on reparations.

Although the discourse on the political dimension of international youth work is currently gaining momentum again, it always focuses back on the individual, personal development potential of the participants, such as increased self-confidence, intercultural competence, reduction of prejudices, etc. These features of international youth work can be used creatively and innovatively by those involved in child and youth welfare to fulfill their mission.