GIZ Development Service

With the aim of harnessing professional experience and technical expertise to help others, GIZ seconds development workers within the scope of German international cooperation projects and programmes. Development workers are often assigned to rural areas, where they can put their professional expertise to good use developing the capacities of local people and organisations. Development workers are prepared to engage with the local culture and language, and to work under customary conditions in the region. Assignments are for a fixed period, generally two years, with the option of extending for a total period of up to four years. Development workers shape change and pursue a holistic approach. Their high level of competence in implementing measures is paired with an understanding of advisory services delivered on the basis of partnership, and the willingness to keep learning themselves. They demonstrate great intercultural sensitivity and empathy in their work.

The idea behind the Civil Peace Service (ZFD) programme is to resolve conflicts peacefully and to strengthen civilian forces within society so that they are able to apply this approach. On behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Civil Peace Service sends peace experts to crisis- and conflict-affected regions, where they work with local partner organisations to support peace processes.

GIZ is currently involved in the Civil Peace Service in 18 countries, with about 100 international experts and another 100 local experts. The peace experts support local non-governmental organisations and initiatives, state agencies and municipal authorities as well as national programmes and institutions under the provisions of the German Entwicklungshelfer-Gesetz (development workers act). They aim to change behaviour patterns, attitudes and structures to enable partners to deal with conflict in a non-violent way. GIZ’s Civil Peace Service brings together different stakeholders in dialogue, enabling them to network and building a bridge between the state and civil society.

On their return to their own country, we help development workers reintegrate into society and working life. GIZ also encourages returning development workers to network among one another and with GIZ.
Development workers’ engagement does not end on their return: there are a great many ways of passing on the experience gained in the partner country so that it can be harnessed for sustainable development.

As a state development service we are particularly concerned to ensure your safety and security during your assignment in the partner country, and to provide a high level of care. We will pay the social security contributions for you and your family, ensure that you are able to afford an appropriate standard of living, and pay a reintegration allowance on your return.

Before starting your assignment, you will complete a thorough preparatory phase conducted by highly qualified specialists at GIZ’s Academy for International Cooperation (AIZ). Our medical service will provide a full medical check-up before you leave and on your return and will also give you health care information and tips.

Development workers and their families are protected by a professional risk management system which minimises individual hazards and risks in crisis-affected countries. Experts monitor and analyse the situation, are in close contact with local embassies, issue security reports and warnings, and provide advice on safety and security precautions.