"This could be very useful for society"

The Platform is an umbrella organisation for some 150 associations in the social sector. They want to put the idea on the political agenda through the support of a number of BV's. The alternative civilian service is aimed at youngsters between 18 and 25 and should last 6 months. It should allow youngsters to engage in solidarity projects in the social and cultural sector and for the environment.

In return, participants receive an insurance, a small amount of money and they can follow a wide range of trainings. "It will boost their self-confidence, make them feel useful, help them engage in projects that benefit society and find a job at a later stage", the Platform announces on its website.

Belgium used to have many more people on an alternative civilian service when the compulsory military service still existed - it was abolished in the early nineties, red. Those refusing to join the army training, or those that were not allowed, automatically had to perform a kind of alternative civilian service.

"I joined the service in my time and it was the basis for what I am doing now", says the VRT's weather presenter Frank Deboosere. "Youngsters between 18 and 25 should be given the opportunity to make that choice if they want, regardless of background or school grades. They can engage in cultural and social projects, which provide an invaluable experience that can be a benefit to them for the rest of their lives."

Photo (top row first): Wim Opbrouck (actor and theatre great), the Dardenne brothers (film makers), veteran liberal politician Herman De Croo and the VRT weather presenter Frank Deboosere support the idea.