Project background: UNICEF now concentrate more on policy level work but still have substantial contact with organisations working in the field. Their working language English and UNICEF are happy to take interns in their office for a month (dependant on qualifications and experience).

Accommodation: There are plenty of hostels that people can stay in for approx €10 per night, such as Guest House Velania (based on 3 people sharing). It may be possible to find other accommodation that may be cheaper. Velania is the affluent housing district of Pristina and is very safe with plenty of international police and embassies in very close proximity.

Skill base of the volunteer required: Potential applicants should be interested and competent in the skills associated with the projects. UNICEF wants a CV and a letter of motivation.

Activities in the projects:

1. Teaching life-skills:

• HIV/AIDS, sex education
• Peer-to-peer education, working closely with youth NGO
• Teaching the youth about gender issues

2. Child protection - Juvenile justice (prevention)

• Pilot in Pristina with those under 14 (criminal age of responsibility is 14, Kosovo has a very enlightened youth justice system) to rehabilitate kids rather than put them in institutions, as is the case in neighbouring countries
• Provide role-models and out of school activities. Even though this does not seem likely, Arbena was sure that even having an international student come and talk to the children would really help.

3. Juvenile Justice – Policy Level

• High-level project which works with Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare to develop best practices.

4. Clubs for children – “Clubs for Kids”

• Working with children in clubs including those in Serb enclaves, although these are not integrated.

Development and future opportunities: Projects in Mitrovica have not yet been started but UNICEF is in the process of organising them. If the tension subsides then this would be a possible area to develop into and would consist of multi-ethnic community building exercises, and bringing youth communities together in multi-ethnic areas.

Possible security and safety concerns: Will involve vulnerable groups but working with an international aid organisation should be safe and secure even if projects involve travel to northern areas.

Last updated: April 26th, 2009