Strengthening international youth work locally

Netzwerk Kommune goes International

The network Kommune goes International (KGI) assists local authorities that plan to introduce and expand international youth work activities at the local level. By receiving tailor-made advice and information, they can move closer to their goal of stepping up their commitment in this area.

What is the network all about?

International youth work can contribute towards creating a more equal playing field for all members of society, promoting democracy and navigating social diversity. The network Kommune goes International was designed specifically to put in place the preconditions at the local level for enabling all young people to experience a stay abroad. Since 2011, IJAB has provided local authorities that wish to implement a political process of this kind with a wide range of support services, such as advice, information and training, through KGI.

Strengthening international youth work at the local level
Recommendations of the German youth policy initiative ‘Kommune goes International’ for policymakers and authorities

Kommune goes International receives funding from the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth. It is implemented in cooperation with Association of German Cities, the Association of German Counties and the German Association of Towns and Municipalities.

On the way to more international youth work at the local level

Engaging in more international youth work and building the necessary structures is a different journey for each individual local authority since it depends on the respective local circumstances and infrastructures. During the first phase of the KGI initiative, the following steps proved highly effective in achieving the desired impact:

If you don't know how and where to get started, no problem: we are happy to support and advise you!

Joining the Kommune goes International network

Public-sector child and youth services organisations in cities, communities and districts that plan to step up their international youth work engagement together with independent providers are welcome to join the network. The initiative is aimed both at local authorities with existing international youth work programmes as well as at those municipalities that have little or no experience in this field. The only requirement is that they be motivated and willing to engage actively in the network.

If you are interested in joining the Kommune goes International network, please get in touch.

KGI newsletter: Current information for cities, communities and districts

The KGI newsletter (Please note: The newsletter is currently only available in German.) is sent out three to four times a year and contains current information specifically for local authorities on international youth work. If you would like to receive it, please subscribe by completing the following form: KGI newsletter subscription form.

 

Kommune goes International
Current articles

IJAB reports regularly on the meetings and training courses offered by the Kommune goes International network as well as on activities at local authority level.

Contact person
Roman Thieltges
Roman Thieltges
Project Officer
International Youth Policy Cooperation
Tel.: +49 (0)228 9506-111