YFU Program Safety

YFU programs have exchanged more than 200,000 students since 1951, many of these years coinciding with war or international conflict. As tensions and political uncertainty in the Middle East continue, our top priority continues to be student safety. On a daily basis, YFU USA monitors safety conditions issued through our partner offices overseas, the US Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO).

  • Students continue to remain in the care of their host families. In the event of an emergency, students should make every effort to contact their natural family, as well as their Area Representative and District office.
  • Students are reminded that they are young ambassadors of their home country and to exercise tact and restraint in their expression of political beliefs, and are advised to not become actively involved in political activities or protests. Such involvement may be misunderstood, resented, or disliked.
  • Safety conditions worldwide will be monitored using embassies and government officials to assess conditions. In the event situations warrant program changes, YFU will make such decisions on a case-by-case basis.

Our mission is to prepare young people for their responsibilities and opportunities in a changing, interdependent world. Our mission is even more focused and critical in times of international crisis. We believe that creating the bonds of friendships between individuals and their communities is the strongest way to develop bridges of understanding, tolerance, and peace.

Last Updated: Monday, January 12, 2004 03:31 PM