07.02.2025 | Interviews
People who volunteer are a great support to society: They can be found as trainers in sports clubs or as organisers of cultural events. They work with refugees or help people without a permanent home. Furthermore they look after our safety, put out fires and care for the injured. About the importance of volunteering we interviewed Ralph Tiesler, President of the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance.
How important are volunteers in the field of civil protection in Germany?
“Well, accidents and disasters can happen at any time. Their effects can affect everyone and every community. In Germany, many volunteers are involved in these emergency situations, and they are responsible for over 90% of all operations. They play therefore a key role in ensuring the safety of all of us. This also applies to the field of civil protection, meaning the protection of the population in the state of tension and defence.”
In which areas are volunteers deployed?
“For example, they attend road accidents. They reinforce dykes, rescue people from their homes or secure buildings in the event of flooding. Technical assistance, such as the emergency power supply for hospitals or the construction of bridges, is also one of their tasks. However, it doesn’t always have to be an emergency service operation: thousands of volunteer swimming trainers, first aid instructors, extras during exercises or administrators in front of computers play an equally important role.”
And if you want to volunteer in the field of civil protection? How can you do that?
“All organisations introduce themselves on our campaign website. This gives you an insight into the many different activities. Last summer, we published an interactive map of Germany. Interested people can now use a simple postcode search to see where they can get involved in their neighbourhood and contact the organisations directly. Simply call or write an e-mail, go there and join in.”
Why do you think it is important for as many people as possible to volunteer?
“Oh, the list is quite long. On the one hand, climate change and the changing security situation present us with major challenges. The state cannot provide for and protect millions of people solely through full-time staff. Our assistance system is based on a strong partnership between the state and society. On the other hand, it makes sense from an individual perspective to get involved. It teaches you how to help yourself and help others. Volunteers shape our society. Their commitment holds us together as a society.”