What has to be considered for hosting a participant?
The host partner acts locally as employer for incoming participants. This means that participant’s principal line of duty is within the organisational structure of the host partner, not his/her home partner. Issues and concerns which the participants may have should accordingly be raised in this line. In general, the host partner’s rules and regulations apply also to the incoming participant, and this should be reflected in the job description.
Each network member is operationally responsible for hosting the participants from other members. The following are some important issues to consider in this respect:
Participant accommodation and travel to/from work
The host partner has to find suitable accommodation for the participant within the budget frame set. Accommodation should be basic, but reasonable and safe. It should be considered in connection with suitable public transport to work in such a way that travel time is minimised.
Work and residence permits
As regards work permits in the South, neither Fredskorpset nor Norwegian embassies are able to make any contribution vis-à-vis local authorities. This must be arranged by the host partner.
Tax issues
The receiving partner must also consider local law with respect to possible taxation of participants’ income, and make the necessary arrangements.
Medical, travel and accident insurance policies
All participants have to have adequate insurance coverage in line with what is available on the local market. The standard should generally be in line with what the receiving partner offers to its own employees. The incoming participant has in particular to be advised on medical services upon arrival.
Social and cultural integration
Even if the exchange is professionally focused, the general well-being of participants living away from home for a long period of time must be considered. It is a good thing to try to include an incoming participant in after work social and cultural activities.