The intercultural mediator as a social operator is relatively new in Germany; it was between 2005-2007 when it has seen a development from volunteering to professional work. To understand the legislation scenario in which the intercultural mediator operates, it is important to consider the immigration laws of 2005 (Zuwanderungsgesetz) that regulates both immigration and the new institutional set-up for integration.
The Equal (Sprakum) project attempted to regulate the intercultural mediator profile by setting standards and distinguishing the role from similar positions. Training courses follow a 200-hours program: 120 hours – basic knowledge and general mediation methods; 30 hours – mediation on two chosen areas; 30 hours of supervision and 20 hours of participatory evaluation. At the end of the course a certification is released.
