Who are PBI Field Volunteers?
PBI field volunteers come from a wide range of countries and cultural backgrounds. What they share is a strong commitment to nonviolence and a belief in the power of ordinary people to help build a more just and peaceful world.
What do PBI field teams do?
When there is conflict—whether within a country, between communities, or at a national level—some actions are possible and appropriate for outsiders, and others are not. PBI teams aim to encourage a peaceful resolution to conflicts through an international, nonviolent, and nonpartisan presence. To do so, PBI teams:
- Provide support and protective accompaniment to human rights defenders and groups or individuals under threat of violence.
- Develop a strong analysis of the political situation by listening to a wide variety of perspectives and experiences, while respecting the need for confidentiality.
- Inform the outside world about the local situation through nonpartisan reporting and analysis.
- Promote actions aimed at reducing violence.
- Hold regular meetings with local and national authorities, both civil and military, as well as with embassies, to raise concerns about human rights abuses affecting the organizations they accompany.
PBI is not a development organization. We believe communities must have the space to carry out their own development in a way that builds self-sufficiency rather than dependence. PBI refers development project requests to organizations specialized in that field.
What Does PBI Offer to Field Volunteers?
The invaluable experience of working with an international peace and human rights organization committed to turning ideals into practical action.
Specialized training based on over 30 years of fieldwork experience.
The opportunity to live and work in a close-knit team of volunteers from diverse cultural and national backgrounds.
A unique, first-hand insight into the immense challenges, resilience, and courage of human rights defenders.
All PBI projects cover the following expenses: international travel to the country of assignment, accommodation, food, internal travel, insurance, and repatriation. A small stipend is also provided to help cover additional costs.
Requirements
- A clear understanding of and commitment to nonviolence.
- Proficiency in Spanish.
- Discretion and diplomacy.
- Maturity (most volunteers are over 25 years old).
- Resilience and the ability to work effectively under pressure.
- Knowledge and understanding of the history, politics, and culture of the country of assignment.
- Empathy and intercultural sensitivity, demonstrated through previous intercultural experience.
- A minimum commitment of one year.
For more details, see the Frequently Asked Questions for field volunteer applicants.
Living Conditions
PBI volunteers share a house that serves both as a residence and as an office. These homes are typically international and communal in nature.
Learn More
For more information about:
How to become a volunteer with a PBI project, visit the Frequently Asked Questions for applicants.
Also, contact the PBI country group nearest you or the International Office (contact details below).