30 November 1998

Bonn, Germany: On the occasion of the annual International Volunteer Day - on 5 December - the Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers programme, Ms. Sharon Capeling-Alakija, has appealed to committed volunteers all over the world to strengthen their cooperation. “In our rapidly globalizing world, this citizen’s action can be a unifying force to tackle issues of world-wide concern. Quite suddenly, it is no longer sufficient to think globally and act locally. Now we must act globally as well,” says Sharon Capeling-Alakija.

On 5 December, the United Nations Volunteers programme is launching a website as part of the preparations for the International Year of Volunteers in 2001. A logo for IYV 2001 is also being introduced that day, designed and offered voluntarily by Sandra Rojas from Argentina.

On the website - www.iyv2001.org - there is not only background information about the International Year of Volunteers but also a calendar of events, articles, research and reports on personal experiences, as well as links to the websites of many organizations working for and with volunteers. The site is conceived as an international platform for the exchange of information. Data and thoughts on different aspects of volunteering can be E-mailed directly to Team IYV 2001 in Bonn (iyv2001@unv.org).

International Volunteer Day was proclaimed in 1985 by the General Assembly of the United Nations, to be held on 5 December. It has become a day for recognition of volunteers of every kind, everywhere. Whether the activities support charities or help protect the environment, donate blood or promote cooperation with developing countries, the Day allows the achievements of volunteers for the welfare of others to be honoured worldwide.