World leaders gathered for the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha from 4 through 6 November 2025. The summit culminated in the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration, a bold recommitment to eradicating poverty, promoting decent work, and fostering inclusive societies. Among its many provisions, the declaration made a powerful statement on volunteerism.
Doha Political Declaration of the “World Social Summit” under the title “the Second World Summit for Social Development” stated (in regards to volunteerism):
Encouraging volunteerism at all levels–local, national and international–and recognizing that these efforts contribute to social cohesion by promoting civic engagement.
This language marks a significant milestone for the global volunteer movement, and the declaration’s statement on volunteerism aligns with broader UN strategies, including the upcoming International Volunteer Year and the State of the World's Volunteerism Report.
Far from a footnote, volunteerism was spotlighted as a powerful engine of civic engagement, capable of knitting communities together through shared purpose and mutual support. When people step up to serve—whether in their neighbourhoods or across borders—they strengthen the bonds of solidarity that hold societies together.
This renewed emphasis comes at a time when global challenges—from inequality to climate shocks—demand collective action. By elevating volunteerism, the Doha Political Declaration sends a clear message: real progress is powered by people, and solidarity is not just a principle—it’s a practice.
To read the Doha Political Declaration in six UN official languages, please click here.