GEC

What is the difference between a campus and a youth workcamp?
A campus involves more ‘intellectual’ voluntary work: they aim to carry out studies and surveys, produce work plans and communication tools, etc. Usually, the campus theme calls for specific volunteer skills (landscape gardener, environmental scientist, architect, etc.) This is not the case for the work camps were no particular skills are required.

Is there an age limit for participating in GECs activities?
Volunteer projects financed in the framework of the European Voluntary Service (REVEP, RIVE)are open to young people between 18 and 25 years (right up to the eve of their 26th birthday) at the start of the project.
There are no age limits for the campuses. As they are open to students, most people are under 30, though there are exceptions.

Which languages are used during these activities?
The language used on a campus or during a European Voluntary Service mission will either be the language of the host country or at least one of the following: French, English, Spanish, Italian or German.
In each case, the working language is specified in the information documents. Usually a working knowledge of French, English or Spanish will be necessary.

Which nationalities can participate in GEC activities?
The RIVE programme, financed in the framework of the European Voluntary Service, is open to young citizens of the European Union, to residents of those countries which are currently applying for EU accession (that is : Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Rumania, Slovenia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Cyprus and Malta). Also residents of certain Mediterranean countries may apply (Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Syria, Tunisia and Turkey). The programme is also open to young citizens of other countries who can provide proof of legal residence in one of the countries listed above (a residence card will be required).
The participants of the campuses are mostly young people from the European continent or Mediterranean countries, but young people from other nationalities may apply as long as they speak the language of the Campus and can contribute specific skills to the Campus objectives.

Do I need a visa to take part in GEC activities in foreign countries?
The answer depends on the type of activity :
- For Campuses and short sessions (seminars, site visits, etc.) : A short-stay visa is required for people from non-EU countries wanting to come into a territory of the European Union. In other cases, only a passport is necessary.
- For the European Voluntary Service : In most non-EU countries, a visa is required. The type of visa depends on the country of destination (student, work, tourism, volunteer mission, etc.). It is difficult to be more accurate, due to the wide variety of situations and the complexity of certain administrative procedures. However, please note that you must contact the closest consular authorities of your destination country, giving yourself sufficient time before the departure date (at least three weeks). You will then be informed of appropriate measures to be taken. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us if you require additional information

Who will be hosting the GEC project in which I take part?
The GEC is a coordination organisation that brings together many local bodies: town councils, NGOs, institutions, etc.
Each of our activities is planned in partnership with at least one of these local organisations. Together with the GEC, they determine the objectives of the survey or study that participants are expected to carry out, and they act as your host when you are on location. They are responsible for your food and lodging, your adaptation to local conditions, and for providing you with the means to carry out your mission, including adequate supervision and training, etc. In the case of RIVE programmes, you will also receive language training and a small stipend (the amount varies according to the country).
In all situations, the GEC is available to answer any questions you may have in the course of your mission and to mediate with the hosting organisation if necessary.

How do I reach my destination?
You are responsible for organising your own transport to and from your host location for an EVS or a campus. The GEC and your host organisation are of course available to advise you.
In the case of an EVS, you can claim back your travel costs if you submit proof of payment.
In the case of a campus, travel is generally at your own cost.
Generally, travel costs are covered on the basis of the APEX airfare in economy class on the second class rail fare.

What insurance cover is provided?
The GEC and the host organisation insure you against any risk linked to your mission and duties : accident, physical injury or material damage caused to a third party, etc.
In the case of an EVS, you are also covered for any possible health problems (health costs, repatriation).
All European Union citizens are required to hold an E 111 form, filled out by their social security office. This document will provide complete health cover and facilitate the refund of any expenses.

How do I register?
By downloading the registration forms that are provided online for each of our activities, or by requesting information from the
gec@apare-gec.org or 33 (0)4 90 27 08 61