FORUM:''The intergenerational power of volunteering.'' International Volunteer Day 2024. On December 5th, we pay tribute to volunteers around the world. It is simply not possible to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) without including people at all stages, at all levels, and at all times. Volunteering makes people part of the solutions. Volunteerism lets people and communities participate in their development. The challenges we face—climate change, conflicts, and social injustices can feel overwhelming. Yet, in these trying moments, the spirit of volunteerism shines brighter than ever. In every corner of the world, volunteers are usually the first to respond. They rise to meet challenges with courage, dedication, and selflessness. Volunteers create a richer culture of service within their communities. They help bridge the gap between generations and support sustainable development. Volunteering allows us to work together across generations to achieve the SDGs. Volunteering is an intergenerational cycle. Let us recognize their contributions, onsite or online, for every act of service counts. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #5December, #InternationalVolunteerDay, #IVD2024, #Ifeveryonedid.
EVENTS: At the UNHQ, on December 5th; the International Volunteer Day 2024 will be observed.
At UNOV, The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) will held a virtual event to demonstrate its commitment to communities and the wellbeing of Volunteers across the globe through concrete community volunteer activities carried out with national and UN system partners.
Statement of the Secretary-General for International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social of Development 2024; December 5th.
The task of building a better world belongs to all people.
On International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, we honour the women and men who devote their time, energy and skills to make our world a healthier, more peaceful and humane place for all.
Whether responding to natural disasters, supporting communities in conflict or working to alleviate poverty, the selflessness and courage of volunteers shine through. And we are reminded that even the smallest acts have the power to change lives.
Our own United Nations Volunteers work to advance peace, justice and equality in 169 countries across the globe. This spirit of solidarity is the lifeblood of the Pact of the Future – adopted in September at the United Nations. The Pact illuminates a path forward grounded in trust and cooperation.
Volunteers embody the best of humanity. On this important day, let’s draw inspiration from their example, and resolve to do our part to help shape a better world for all.
United Nations Secretary-General.
Statement from Mr.Achim Steiner, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the International Volunteer Day 2024; December 5th.
This year’s International Volunteer Day is a moment to recognise the one billion people who volunteer across the world.
From local communities to global initiatives, volunteers remind us that progress often starts with the selfless actions of those willing to make a difference.
In the year 2024, they once again demonstrated their pivotal role as first responders in times of crises.
That includes United Nations Volunteers who have supported humanitarian efforts in Gaza, assisted families affected by the war in Ukraine and helped restore basic services and livelihoods in Myanmar.
Today’s volunteers are demonstrating remarkable adaptability, embracing new ways to serve.
For instance, hundreds of volunteers, committed to advancing peace with nature were at the heart of the Conference of the Parties in Colombia earlier this year.
Or look to South Sudan, where volunteers are taking a stand against sexualized violence during local elections. Our world is changing, and so too are the ways volunteers engage. The rise of digital and remote volunteering enables anyone to contribute also to global causes from anywhere in the world.
From mentoring young innovators, to using technology to craft environmental solutions, volunteers are actively taking the reins in shaping a more sustainable future.
So far in 2024, over 13,000 on-site UN Volunteers have served with over 70 UN entities and missions as part of the UN Volunteers programme, which is proudly hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
This year has also seen a record number of 10,000 Online Volunteers, ranging from the ages of 18 to 88.
Hailing from some 180 countries, UN Volunteers bring with them unique perspectives, experiences, and skills that enrich our collective efforts.
As the UN Secretary-General has highlighted, volunteers from diverse backgrounds must be able to play an even greater role in driving progress on the Sustainable Development Goals at the country- and community-levels.
On behalf of UNDP, I would like to express my deepest gratitude and admiration to every volunteer who has given their time, energy, and expertise to improve our world.
Your work embodies the Pact for the Future, which champions the belief that true progress is driven by the contributions of people on the ground, working across borders to shape what comes next.
Indeed, your efforts are not only changing our world today.
Ultimately, you are paving the way for a legacy of possibilities, resilience, and a lasting optimism that will inspire those who inherit this world.
Happy International Volunteer Day and thank you.
Achim Steiner, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
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