Volontären

Volontären is the plural form of Volontär in German. The term is used for individuals in two related contexts: trainees in journalism and volunteers in other settings.

In journalism and broadcasting, Volontär or Volontariat denotes a structured training program for aspiring reporters and editors. The program combines on-the-job assignments with instruction and typically lasts one to two years, depending on the media outlet and country. Volontäre rotate through departments, learn newsroom procedures, conduct research, write articles, and receive mentoring. Successful completion often leads to a staff position; compensation and contract status vary by employer and country.

In non-professional volunteering, the corresponding concept is usually expressed with Freiwillige or Ehrenamtliche. Nevertheless, Volontäre may be used in some organizations to describe volunteers who perform unpaid tasks in areas such as culture, social services, or events, particularly in contexts influenced by traditional or international terminology.

Grammatically, Volontären is the dative plural or genitive plural form of Volontär, while Volontäre is the nominative plural. The term is most common in German-speaking countries—Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland—with regional differences in training schemes, rights, and pay.

Etymologically, Volontär derives from the French volontaire, reflecting historical borrowing. Today the word covers both the training-focused and broader volunteering contexts, with the precise meaning shaped by context and gendered language.