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More than a billion volunteer around
the world act for solidarity and humanity for people
and planet. IVD is a day to pay tribute to
volunteers worldwide and to recognize the value of
volunteerism in peace and development.
The theme of IVD this year centers on
the power of everyone – collective action – if
everyone did. If everyone volunteered the world
would be a better place. Imagine more than eight
billion of us volunteering. Limitless possibilities
for sustainable development – food and education for
everyone, clean environment and good health,
inclusive
and peaceful societies, and more.
As the world garners support to deal
with mounting challenges, it’s the volunteers who
are the first ones to help. Volunteers are at the
fore in crises and emergencies, often in very
testing and dire situations.
“On
this important day, let’s re-commit to ensuring that
all people can lend their energies to shaping a
better future for all people and the planet we
share. Let’s stand with volunteers, everywhere.”
António Guterres, Secretary-General, United Nations.
IVD activities are
taking place around the world including seven
high-level events co-hosted by Governments in
Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Iraq, Ireland, Tanzania,
Thailand, and Togo.
From the national caravan of
volunteering in Togo to the climate-conscious
activities of tree planting in Azerbaijan to the
wheelchair journey of volunteers with disabilities
in Thailand – each event amplifies the diversity of
volunteering around the globe.
Countries and volunteer groups will
mark the spirit of volunteerism together with
communities, academia, volunteer-involving
organizations, and UN agencies. UNV Staff at
Headquarters in Bonn will also participate in a
volunteering activity to mark IVD and demonstrate
the spirit of volunteerism among local residents.
“Today
I say to all volunteers around the globe: Thank you.
For choosing to improve the world. For finding
inspiration to act. For creating solutions. For
keeping our hopes alive. And to the world our
message is: Imagine what we could achieve if all
joined in. And volunteered.” Toily
Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator,
United Nations Volunteers.
Keeping the tone of solidarity in
crisis and conflict,
we wish everyone peace on IVD 2023. |