Report on recognising and promoting cross-border voluntary activities in the EU

(2011/2293(INI))

This report by Marco SCURRIA (EPP, IT), was written for and adopted by the Committee on Culture and Education. It concerns the promotion of volunteering throughout Member States. The benefits of volunteering to both individuals and to society as a whole are considerable. The report suggests establishing a proper, legal framework to support volunteers.

The report calls on Member States to draw up strategies to encourage growth of volunteer numbers and activities, and to recognise the rights of volunteers. They should “ensure quality, protection and equal access for everyone”, and try to reduce barriers and red tape for cross-border volunteering. Cross-border volunteering can create “intercultural enrichment” and better social cohesion.

It is also suggested that Member States make volunteering accessible to immigrants and minorities, as it can be an essential element in encouraging the integration and social inclusion of such people. The benefits for older people are also acknowledged in this report, mentioning how such activities can ease the transition from work to retirement and give older people “the chance to make their own contribution to the growth of solidarity in the community”.

It is recommended that a European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps be established along with the development of a European Skills Passport.

- The European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps will select, train and dispatch volunteers in the event of natural disasters.

- The European Skills Passport will provide for the cross-border recognition of professional skills, and will make it possible for a record to be kept of competences and skills acquired through volunteering.

The European Parliament voted to approve the report on the 12th June 2012 with 603 votes for, 23 against and 63 abstentions.

To read the report click here

Alternatively visit the website at www.europarl.europa.eu

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