The 1991 to 2002 civil war between the government and the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of more than 2 million people (well over one-third of the population), many of whom are now refugees in neighboring countries. With the support of the UN peacekeeping force and contributions from the World Bank and international community, demobilization and disarmament of the RUF and Civil Defense Forces (CDF) combatants has been completed. National elections were held in May 2002 and the government continues to slowly reestablish its authority. However, the gradual withdrawal of most UN Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) peacekeepers in 2004 and early 2005, deteriorating political and economic conditions in Guinea, and the tenuous security situation in neighboring Liberia may present challenges to the continuation of Sierra Leone's stability.
Visit the following organizations offering volunteer abroad opportunities in Sierra Leone:
Peace Corp - Peace Corps volunteers travel overseas and make real differences in the lives of real people.
United Nation Volunteers - The volunteer arm of the United Nations. It was created to serve as an operational partner in development cooperation at the request of UN member states. Offers long term volunteer opportunities to professionals worldwide.
American Jewish World Service - Supports 200 grassroots organizations in the developing world and Russia and Ukraine through grant making, technical assistance, emergency relief and advocacy.
