Israel Matzav

They've got to be kidding: UN wants Israelis to volunteer for their 3rd world programs

I can see volunteering to do something in the Third World, but there is no way in the world I can see doing it through the United Nations. In fact, out of 7,500 volunteers in the UN's programs only two - count 'em - are from Israel. Is anyone really surprised?

The UN's aid and development agencies board, in which Israel is a member, discussed the future of its volunteers recently and decided to call on Israelis to join the UNV, Yedioth Ahronoth reported Monday.

Israelis above the age of 25 with an academic degree and at least two years of experience in the fields of health, education and agriculture are invited to submit their applications. The contract is for two years during which the volunteer gets a monthly salary depending on his placement. Some volunteer positions can earn tens of thousands of dollars a year.

The volunteers also enjoy health insurance and in some cases can have their families join them overseas.

The UNV operates in 130 countries, mainly in the Third World: 40% of its activity centers around Africa; 26% in Asia and 15% in Eastern Europe. The program is also active in the Caribbean, Central America and South America. The UN determines the volunteers' placement.

"The fact that there are only two Israelis among thousands of volunteers warrants a change, "Israel's Ambassador to the UN Ron Prosor told Yedioth Ahronoth. "Our goal is to open the door for a huge contribution Israel can offer the world."

During the meeting, Yahav Lichner, Israel's delegate to the UN board, stressed the importance of diversity in the selection of volunteers, in a way that would reflect the international nature of the UN.

If an Israeli were interested in volunteering in the Third World (and there are thousands of Israelis who are scattered all over Africa and the Far East), why on earth would they do it through the hostile United Nations? How many countries in the Third World would even accept Israeli volunteers?

Sorry, but there is no way in the world I would do anything associated with the UN.

Labels: United Nations

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 6:28 PM