Civic service for young people in France

Civic service in France is a paid program for young people aged 16 to 25, or up to 30 for those with disabilities, offering missions that last between six and twelve months. The goal is to help participants feel useful, develop skills, or discover their interests through community service.

Program’s history and reach

Since its launch in 2010, more than half a million young people have completed civic service missions across France. In the Gard department alone, over 6,500 young people have participated in such missions, working with various organizations, associations, and local authorities.

Focus areas and upcoming missions

The missions cover a wide range of areas, including solidarity, education, culture, sports, and the environment. For the 2026-2027 period, the Departmental Council of the Gard has planned 17 missions, including two in mediation, which allows organizations without formal accreditation to host volunteers. Other missions will address issues like elderly isolation, departmental archives, and municipal police work in Remoulins.

Previous recruitment and national priorities

In the previous 2025-2026 period, the council recruited 30 young people aged 18 to 25 for missions averaging eight months. Nationally, ten areas of action are proposed, including health, sports, memory and citizenship, and international development.

Importance of civic service

Françoise Laurent-Perrigot, president of the Departmental Council of the Gard, emphasized the value of civic service in fostering general interest and community benefit. She described the experience as enriching and formative for young people’s future careers and personal development.

Principles and goals of the program

Civic service is based on eight core principles, including general interest, citizenship, and accessibility. It aims to support organizations that serve others in nine priority areas for the nation, allowing volunteers to amplify the impact of these organizations on the ground.

Mediation and volunteer recruitment

Mediation is a system that allows organizations without accreditation to host volunteers. The Departmental Council of the Gard has already recruited 18 young people, including through a large speed dating event on September 15, and five more missions remain to be filled.

Encouragement and future aspirations

Amal Couvreur, vice-president and delegate for Urban Policy, encouraged the new volunteers, calling them a “real force and hope” for the future. She expressed interest in hearing why they chose to participate in civic service and emphasized the importance of connecting with diverse communities.

Experiences and future paths of former volunteers

Former volunteers shared varied experiences, with some continuing their commitment beyond their service. Others have pursued careers in gender equality, education, disability support, and internet-related work. Their stories highlight the diverse opportunities and personal growth offered by the program.