February 04, 2012
  
  • Promoting nonviolence and protecting human rights defenders since 1981

Criteria for field volunteers

Specific requirements vary between projects, but this is a general guide:

  • A thorough understanding of and commitment to PBI's principles.
  • Language skills - fluent Spanish is essential for working in Mexico, Guatemala and Colombia. The Nepal teams use English but volunteers are required to learn the local language before joining the team.
  • Cultural sensitivity - experience of working with people of different cultures.
  • Discretion and diplomacy.
  • Maturity - there is no age limit for volunteering on a PBI project but most volunteers are aged 25 or over.
  • The ability to analyse political situations.
  • Resilience - the ability to work effectively under pressure and stress.
  • Experience of living and working in groups - familiarity with consensus decision-making and teamwork.
  • Knowledge and understanding of the history, politics and culture of the country where you are working.
  • The ability to deal confidently with a range of people including representatives of NGOs, government bodies and embassies.
  • The ability to learn quickly, analyse situations and rapidly assess their significance.
  • Flexbility - the ability to change tactics, work and opinions.
  • A willingness to carry out basic administrative and housekeeping tasks.
  • Practical skills - IT, bookkeeping, writing, photography, cooking, and many other skills are useful

Become a field volunteer

PBI UK, 1b Waterlow Road, London N19 5NJ.

Tel/Fax: 44 (0)20 7281 5370 | Email us

UK Charity Number: 1101016


International Office, Development House, 56-64 Leonard Street, London EC2A 4LT, U.K. Tel: +44 20 7065 0775
To find your nearest PBI office visit the international contact page