Exchange with Dr Anja Weisgerber, Member of Parliament, on voluntary services, youth participation and the KJP

In the discussion on the planned evaluation of the Federal Child and Youth Plan (KJP), the representatives of the Federal Youth Council pointed out the importance of the KJP as an established central funding instrument for the federal structures of child and youth welfare. The reliable work of the youth organisations and thus the voluntary commitment of over six million young people must remain secure. This is only possible if the focus on long-term structural support is maintained. From the perspective of the Bundesjugendring, however, the KJP is less suitable for short-term and therefore less sustainable projects.

The discussion also focussed on the debate surrounding the reintroduction of compulsory military service and the need to strengthen voluntary services. The Bundesjugendring called for a significant expansion of places in the voluntary services and emphasised that all service formats - both the armed forces and civilian voluntary services - must be recognised and treated equally. A central topic was the problem of the different pocket money regulations. The planned higher allowance for those doing military service compared to those doing civilian voluntary service is unequal treatment that urgently needs to be avoided. It is of great importance that all volunteers receive equal recognition and support.

In addition, the participation of children and young people in issues of child and youth media protection was discussed. The Federal Youth Council presented a specific participation format involving the Youth Participation Specialist and Coordination Centre (FKS). The aim of this format is to actively involve young people in the organisation of media and protection issues. Dr Weisgerber and the Bundesjugendring agreed to continue the dialogue and work on this together.

The discussion took place in a very constructive atmosphere and created a good basis for further cooperation - in the interests of the many young people who are involved in youth organisations on a daily basis.