Peace Corps – misja „wielkiej integracji” Johna F. Kennedy’ego

Abstract

Peace Corps was established on March 1, 1961 as an agency functioning in the structure of the State Department and financed by this department. By the Executive Order of March 1, 1961, John F. Kennedy authorized sending American citizens abroad to satisfy the need for qualified workers in other countries. The organization was meant to be, and from the very beginning has functioned as an instrument promoting and implementing goals of American foreign policy. So far 170 000 Peace Corps volunteers have fulfilled their mission in 137 countries. Despite numerous problems Peace Corps members have had to cope with - staying in the countries disturbed by wars or revolutions, being suspected of spying, dealing with anti-American atmosphere - the organization has existed for forty-six years now and throughout that period it has been functioning efficiently.