International Volunteer Day 2025; December 5th.

FORUM: “Every contribution matters” International Volunteer Day 2025. More than 2.1 billion volunteers worldwide act every month to foster solidarity and humanity. Their efforts are vital for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, responding to humanitarian emergencies, and building resilient communities. IVY 2026 calls on governments, United Nations entities, civil society, academia and the private sector to deepen global understanding of volunteerism, promote knowledge-sharing, and integrate volunteering into national development strategies. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #5December, #everycontributionmatters, #InternationalVolunteerDay, #IVD2025.

EVENTS: On December 5th; The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) celebrates International Volunteer Day 2025 under the theme “Every contribution matters”, announcing two major milestones: The global launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY) 2026, as proclaimed by the UN General Assembly through resolution 78/127; and the release of the 2026 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report (SWVR), which sets the tone for an initiative to recognize and advance volunteer contributions to sustainable development. The official opening of IVY 2026 takes place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Germany, Kazakhstan and UNV. The event features high-level remarks by the President of the General Assembly, the co-hosts, a multi-stakeholder Global Call to Action for the Future of Volunteering, and the unveiling of the 2026 SWVR.

Around the world, events marking International Volunteer Day and the launch of the International Volunteer Year are taking place this week; from a running activity and parade in Bangkok, to the International Forum of Civil Participation in Moscow, celebrations in Nantong and Shanghai in China, a regional launch in Uzbekistan and Kenya’s national launch at the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi, among many others.   Register to participate!

Statement of the UN Secretary-General António Guterres International Volunteer Day 2025; December 5th.

In an era of political division and social isolation, volunteering offers a powerful way to forge connections and foster our shared humanity.

On this International Volunteer Day, we honour the millions across the globe stepping forward to serve their communities and advance the greater good.

This year’s theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” reminds us that everyone has something meaningful to offer, and that every cause, from hunger, to climate, to humanitarian action, benefits from the enthusiasm and expertise of volunteers.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the more than 14,000 people who have served through the United Nations Volunteers programme, and to the countless others who give their time and talents to help neighbours and strangers alike. Your commitment, solidarity and compassion are shaping a better world.

This week also marks the launch of the International Volunteer Year 2026.

Over the next twelve months, I urge everyone, everywhere to volunteer for a cause that matters to you. In times of crisis and uncertainty, you can be the change you wish to see.

Together, we can grow a global movement of volunteers, and build a brighter, more caring future for all.

António Guterres, Secretary-General.

Statement from UNDP Associate Administrator Haoliang Xu on International Volunteer Day 2025.

Today on International Volunteer Day 2025, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of volunteers across the world. That includes those who rush to disasters, who teach, mentor, and open
doors for the next generation or simply those who listen when no one else will.
We're also reminded that every contribution matters. More than 2.1 billion people volunteer every month. That's one in three working age adults choosing freely and without pay to make someone else's life better. The United Nations Development Program has been extremely proud to host United Nations volunteers since 1971. UNV has been an engine that promotes volunteerism worldwide and mobilizes talented individuals as UN volunteers across the United Nations system.
In 2025 alone, over 14,500 of them played a vital role from responding to disasters and conflicts, building peace, and advancing development in some of the world's most challenging contexts. The commitment, expertise and the compassion of UN volunteers are quietly changing the world. This international volunteer day also marks the launch of the international year of volunteer for sustainable development in 2026. It is an invitation to listen more deeply to volunteers, to support them more smartly, to measure their impact better and to celebrate their diversity and creativity.
Because when more people volunteer, communities grow stronger and the sustainable development goals become more likely a reality on the ground.
Finally, on behalf of UNDP, I would like to thank volunteers everywhere for your time, your skills, and your unshakable belief that a better word is possible.

Happy International Volunteer Day.

PUBLICATION: For more details, visit International Volunteer Day 2025, International Volunteer Year 2026, and read the 2026 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report.

 

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: Social media materials are available on UNV's Trello.

LIVESTREAM: Opening Event of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY) 2026.

Aligned with the 2025 International Volunteer Day theme, "Every contribution matters", the event will serve as a platform for Member States to pledge concrete actions to operationalize Resolution 78/127 such as integrating volunteerism into national development strategies and establishing national committees to lead their International Volunteer Year campaigns at the country level.

• Opening
• Special Remarks
• Launch of the 2026 State of the World's Volunteerism Report: Every contribution matters
• Plenary
• Closing

This opening event will bring together Member States, United Nations entities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to elevate the visibility of volunteers and position volunteerism as a strategic enabler of sustainable development, peacebuilding and humanitarian response.

The event will feature the launch of the 2026 State of the World's Volunteerism Report, setting the tone for a year-long global initiative to recognize, amplify and advance the contributions of volunteers to global development and resilience.

The event is co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Kazakhstan and Germany and the United Nations Volunteers programme.
Get the Concept note!

Learn more about the International Volunteer Year.

International Volunteer Day 2024; December 5th.

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)

Find out how you can volunteer!

To access UNV's communication materials for the celebration of the International Volunteer Day, please click here.

International Volunteer Day 2022; December 5th.

FORUM: "Solidarity through volunteering." International Volunteer Day 2022.

Rising inequalities throughout the world implore that we need to work together to find common solutions. Volunteers, drawn together by solidarity, develop solutions to urgent development challenges and for the common good. Volunteering is where compassion meets solidarity. Both share the same root values – supporting each other from a position of trust, humility, respect and equality. 

Follow the conversation with the hastags; #5december, #InternationalVolunteerDay, #solidaritythroughvolunteering, #wemustacttogether and #wemustactnow.

EVENTS: In the lead up to IVD2022, join UNV and volunteers around the globe to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism . We are proud of all volunteers who are role models in their communities by working together in solidarity and personifying inspiration in action. 

" Celebrate volunteering! " - International Volunteer Day (IVD) 2012

Theme for 2012: Celebrate volunteering!

International Volunteer Day (IVD) offers an opportunity for volunteer organizations and individual volunteers to make visible their contributions - at local, national and international levels - to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
Apart from mobilising thousands of volunteers every year, the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme works closely with partners and governments to establish national volunteer programmes to create structures that foster and sustain local volunteerism in countries. Through the Online Volunteering service volunteers can take action for sustainable human development by supporting the activities of development organizations over the Internet. Every day thousands of people are volunteering, online or on-site, contributing to peace and development and working to achieve the MDGs.

On International Volunteer Day (IVD) on 5 December 2012, we celebrate our commitment and hope for a better world. The main focus of IVD 2012 is awareness of and recognition for volunteers and volunteer organizations. The purpose is to recognise this commitment, to inform people about the impact of volunteering on peace and sustainable development, and to applaud volunteers for their dedication and impact.

UNV Online Volunteering Award 2012

The purpose of the award is to recognize online volunteers’ contributions towards achieving the MDGs, to showcase the many ways in which online volunteers can strengthen the capacities of organizations and to demonstrate the difference volunteers can make to peace and development projects by sharing their time, skills and expertise over the Internet.

The UNV Online Volunteering Award presents an opportunity for both, online volunteers and organizations, to bring their online volunteering experiences and good practices to the attention of a global audience.
More information