Time runs quietly and I have been in Slovenia for almost three months. Perhaps this might be a sufficient amount of time to adapt to the new conditions, and to understand how the organization in which I came as a volunteer operates.
“Movement for Decent Work and Welfare Society” (“Gibanje za dostojno delo in socialno družbo”) is a non-profit organization whose main purpose is to combine energetic people who want to change the world for the better. Decent work, prosperous society and freedom of speech are not the whole list of goals pursued by the organization. Gibanje has also given me a new concept that is rarely used in Russia – “precariat.” Exploring this topic deeper, I found a lot of similarities in the Russian labor market, although with its own characteristics, largely associated with migrants. It is really significant social problem that requires detailed consideration and public attention. I think this is also the main objective of my project.
However, every organization is first and foremost – the people, and the effectiveness of work and direction of organization depend on the composition of the team. Therefore, I want to share some more details on the description of the people working in Gibanje.
Firstly, they are enthusiasts of the business, all members of the organization are volunteers, which means they do not receive any income from the organization, but put a lot of effort, energy and time into it. Secondly, they are not indifferent people, it means they are people who care what’s going on around them. Thirdly, they are globally-minded people. The ability to comprehend the problems not only at the local level, but also on a global scale and the ability to see in advance how the action of the “here and now” may affect the subsequent agenda are inherent in members of Gibanje.
Of course, I`m startled by the determination in the actions of these people and their perseverance. During 4 years of Gibanje’s existence there have been many activities and events about which the government, media and society have heard. There’s variety of activities ranging from the organization of conferences and round tables to participation in rallies and protests. I think the quote of Karl Marx reflects the philosophy Gibanje: “Philosophers have only interpreted the world in various ways, the point is to change it“. I am glad to be a part of this team, part of which may contribute to positive change not only in Slovenia, which is slowly becoming very dear to me, but also around the world.
