Volunteerism is considered a powerful means of engaging people in tackling development challenges, and a crucial renewable resource for social and environmental problem-solving throughout the world.

General Assembly resolution A/Res/56/38 asked the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme to provide technical cooperation in the field of volunteerism to realize its potential as a resource for attaining the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). 

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UNV commissioned this global research study to consider trends and lessons in the development of supportive volunteerism policies and legislation. An overall review was conducted in seven regions, complemented by country-specific case studies in each region. The study analyses considerations in drafting and implementing volunteerism laws and policies, and highlights the need to tailor them to specific local, national and regional contexts. Read

This report provides an overview of results achieved by the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme during the 2008-2009 biennium, in support of programme countries and United Nations organizations in their efforts towards peace and development, including achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. Read

The Consultative Meeting on the International Year of Volunteers + 10 (IYV+10), hosted by the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme in Bonn was an opportunity for diverse organizations to discuss ways to mark this anniversary. Read

The environmental movement was started by volunteers, and it has thrived on volunteer effort. It will require the ingenuity and actions of millions of volunteers to address the challenges ahead.

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme encourages people to contribute to environmental sustainability by ‘volunteering for our planet’. Read