As a trusted leader in intercultural exchange, nothing is more important to us than protecting the safety and wellbeing of our participants across the world. We have been closely monitoring the conflict in Ukraine and assessing the impact this situation might have on the global AFS community.
After careful consideration, we have determined it necessary for AFS Intercultural Programs to close hosting programs currently ongoing in Russia. It pains us to have to end early what we know to be a transformative experience for these participants. However, we must act in the best interest of our participants, our families and our respective communities.
AFS Network Organizations are currently in the process of reaching out to those participants and families directly affected by this situation, and we will work closely with them as we begin the process of returning them to their home countries over the coming days.
If this situation begins to affect the safety of participants in other AFS locations in the region, we will keep you informed of our contingency plans. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.
Please contact AFS in your country or reach out to Deputy Chief of Organization Development, Nicole Lebenson Angulo, if you have any questions or concerns.
Read our previous statement on this topic.