The European Federation for Intercultural Learning (EFIL) is the umbrella platform for AFS organisations in Europe and the Mediterranean.
EFIL is the umbrella organisation of 26 AFS organisations in Europe and the Mediterranean, established in 1971. We are an international, non-governmental, non-profit, voluntary-led organisation representing a membership of national non-profit organisations and associations with a common mission: provide intercultural learning opportunities to help young people develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world.
We contribute to Europe’s future by providing intercultural education, European citizenship and the active participation of European citizens in the continent’s life. The European Union and the Council of Europe are EFIL’s core Partners for European fundraising, policy-setting and sharing.
Our mission
We want to promote and contribute to peace and justice by stimulating an awareness of mankind’s common humanity and by encouraging a wider understanding of the diverse social, cultural and physical environment which make up world society.
Volunteers are a core part of EFIL and AFS. We believe in the power of volunteering to promote active citizenship among our network and beyond, and provide opportunities for our volunteers to get involved and to share, learn and network with others whilst boosting their skills and competences.
It has been over 50 years since the European Federation for Intercultural Learning (EFIL) started working towards promoting intercultural understanding and sensitivity among European Organisations, citizens and beyond. Discover all the work done in 50 years!
