In addition to international volunteering camps, Young Researchers of Serbia also exchange volunteers on long-term projects all over the globe with our partners from international networks. Ranging from alpaca farms in Bolivia, preservation of nature in Kenya, teaching foreign languages to children in Thailand to solidarity projects in Europe, we offer you an opportunity to discover the world and try something completely different.

As of 2021, Young Researchers have been accredited by the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) to prepare and send volunteers both to short-term programmes (ESC teams camps), and to long-term ESC projects in Europe (from 2 to 12 months).

Please continue to read for more information about the types of programmes and manner of applying.

ESC long-term volunteering projects in Europe

What is an ESC long-term project?

The European Solidarity Corps is a European Commission’s programme whose aim is to include the youth in the society, to teach them solidarity and promote European values. It is a continuation of the EVS programme in which the Young Researchers participated from 2002 to 2018. This programme enables you to participate in projects in Europe that last up to 12 months, and they cover diverse topics that promote multiculturalism, solidarity and strengthening of the democratic society.

Role of YRS as the sending organisation is to prepare and support you in your departure, but also to stay in touch with you throughout the duration of the project.

Can I participate, too?

The programme is aimed at young people between the age of 18 and 30. You may join one project that lasts 12 months or several whose duration in total does not exceed one year.

Travel expenses, costs of obtaining a visa and costs of stay are covered and you will have insurance throughout the project and receive a monthly allowance to cover your needs.

What will I be doing during a long-term project?

Topics of the projects are highly diverse and it is very important that you read and understand well the description of the activities. The project’s objective is to get you better acquainted with the operation of the organisation and the work itself, to learn the language and become more independent, which is why previous skills are not required. The only thing that matters is that you have the right motivation to participate in the project.

How do I apply?

The application process is designed so that you apply for the project on your own. Once you have found a project to your liking, you need to send a CV and a cover letter to the organisers, after which you shall undergo a selection process. Once you are selected, you may inform them that Young Researchers of Serbia is your sending organisation.

If I get selected, what is next?

We will organise for you a brief preparation on what to expect during the project, and it is up to you to start applying for visa and purchase tickets, and then the only thing left for you to do is to pack your bags and go on an adventure.

Find projects

If you need more information, feel free to contact us at vss@mis.org.rs

Long-term projects of our global partners

Long-term projects of our partners in the Alliance are outside of Europe. These are volunteering projects that are continuous and ongoing throughout the year, and volunteers join them whenever and for however long they can.

Can I participate in the project, too?

There are usually no age limitations here, and while applying, the volunteers undergo a process of interviews and preparation so that they would be certain that the volunteering conditions and the topic of the project suit them.

It is important to mention that these programmes are not subsidised and that volunteers themselves pay for their participation in the projects, as well as travel expenses, insurance and everything else they need. This additional participation fee covers costs of accommodation and food for volunteers, as well as of any tools necessary for the work and making a contribution to the project. It is also important to mention that the general living conditions at camps/projects are basic and that camps may be situated in areas far away from any major cities.

What will I be doing during a long-term project?

The topics are diverse, and in addition to the country of destination, you may also filter your search according to your interests. What you need to have is good motivation and essential skills that will make it easier for you to complete your tasks on the project.

How do I apply?

When it comes to projects of our partners, they are included in our camp search tool. Just enter your age, region or country you wish to travel to and then you may filter the results for projects that last longer than one month. Each of them is accompanied by a detailed description, so if you happen to like any of them, all you need to do is add it to the “backpack” of the search tool and fill out the application. After you have made a payment of the participation fee to the Young Researchers of Serbia in the amount of RSD 7,000, we will forward your application to the organisers and keep you updated on further steps.

If I get selected, what is next?

We will organise for you a brief preparation on what to expect when you get there, and it is up to you to start applying for visa, purchase tickets, get vaccinated, and then the only thing left for you to do is to pack your bags and go on an adventure.

Find projects

If you need more information, feel free to contact us at vss@mis.org.rs