Encouraging Volunteerism in Croatia

USAID supports legal and regulatory reform that strengthen civil society.

Volunteers and voluntary organizations address important needs in the community that would not otherwise be met. Unfortunately, until now the legal framework in Croatia hindered such citizen engagement in that there were no definitions for "volunteer" and NGO-volunteer relations. As a result, both sides were left without legal rights or responsibilities.

USAID, through the Academy for Educational Development (AED) and the European Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ECNL), joined forces with Croatian non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the Volunteer Network, and the Ministry of Family, Veteran Affairs and Intergenerational Solidarity to propose a new law that encourages and promotes volunteerism and incorporates international best practices. The new Law on Volunteerism was adopted by Croatian Parliament on May 18, 2007.

It defines the volunteer status, differentiates volunteerism from employment, and codifies rights and duties to protect both parties in the relationship. For example, the law allows for benefits such as reimbursement of volunteers' travel costs and their legal protection in case of injury. It also protects NGOs from accusations of legal violations that could happen if the state inspectorate treats a volunteer as an employee.

NGO leaders expect many benefits from this new law. Two professionals from volunteer centers in different regions of the country - Lejla Šehić Relić, Director of the Volunteer Centre Osijek and Duška Milinković of Association Mi's Volunteer Support Center in Split - agree that the law will open doors for increasing numbers of people to volunteer in community service projects.

With more volunteers, NGOs will be able to strengthen their organizations and expand their services. Volunteers also benefit. By donating their time they can also learn new skills that can enhance their career or private life.

Based upon the experience of other countries, the enthusiasm of volunteers for their civic involvement may become infectious. If it does, the new Law on Volunteerism will fuel the development of volunteerism and civil society.

Story provided by: AED

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