Through Resolution 78/127, the United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY), thereby promoting and recognizing volunteerism as a significant force for sustainable development.
The designation of 2026 as the International Volunteer Year underscores the vital role volunteers play in advancing the global goals. By fostering community engagement and collective action, volunteering contributes meaningfully to humanitarian efforts and long-term development.
From climate action and poverty reduction to education and health, volunteer efforts are essential to building inclusive and resilient societies. Their contributions must be recognised, measured, and reflected in development planning at all levels.
Whether formal or informal, in-person or digital, local or cross-border, every act of volunteering counts. Volunteerism takes many forms, including mutual aid, caregiving, skill-sharing and civic engagement. Each deserves visibility and support.
Volunteers strengthen societies in times of crisis and peace. From pandemic response and disaster relief to peace-building and long-term development, volunteers are often first to act and last to leave. Their efforts provide immediate support and build resilience. Supporting volunteers through safe, enabling environments and inclusive policies means investing in communities’ ability to adapt, recover and thrive.
Evidence matters. Robust research, data and measurement frameworks are essential to understanding the impact of volunteerism. Evidence helps identify what works, where and for whom. Measuring volunteer contributions ensures they are counted and valued in decision-making, leading to smarter strategies and more effective policies.
For more information https://www.unv.org/recognition-volunteerism-ivy-2026
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