Let us truly value volunteers in 2026

Louise Chamberlain, UNV Deputy Executive Coordinator
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In a time marked by climate shocks, conflict, economic uncertainty, and widening inequality, it is easy to overlook one of the world’s most powerful sources of resilience: volunteers. The designation of 2026 as the International Volunteer Year by the United Nations is more than symbolic; it is a call to action for governments, organizations, and communities to fill this gap and recognize and invest in the power of volunteering.

Globally, over 2.1 billion people volunteer every month; that’s one in three working-age adults. These individuals are not just filling gaps; they are driving progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, bridging humanitarian and development divides, and strengthening social cohesion. They care for neighbours, protect forests, mentor young people, and respond to crises long before institutional help arrives. 

Unmasking digital violence: Legal shields in the virtual world

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Digital violence is often invisible—but its harm is very real. UN Volunteer Communication and Advocacy Assistant and lawyer, Aslı Akbay Alagöz, breaks down victims’ rights under Turkish law and how to seek help. She is currently supporting the 16 Days of Activism campaign in her volunteer role with UN Women. 

Aslı highlights Digital violence is real 'Dijital şiddet gerçektir' in her interview, originally published in Milliyet, a Turkish newspaper and Media Compact partner of UN Women Türkiye.

Aslı Akbay Alagöz explains the legal rights available to victims and stresses that women must be protected in digital spaces just as they are in the physical world. As the digital environment becomes central to daily life, the forms of violence have also evolved. Today, threats, harassment, stalking, the disclosure of intimate images, deepfakes, and AI-based manipulations are among the most common examples of digital violence. Aslı answers questions on the legal framework of digital violence and the rights of victims.

From FAO’s 80-Year legacy to a future fueled by volunteerism

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Joint Message of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Volunteers (UNV)

Today, on 5 December 2025, we wish to celebrate International Volunteer Day and officially launch the 2026 International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. This day recognizes the vital contributions of volunteers worldwide, whose dedication advances sustainable development, strengthens communities, and supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. This year also marked the 80th anniversary of FAO, reflecting eight decades of global efforts to achieve food security, improve nutrition, and support resilient communities. 

Over the years, UN Volunteers have contributed their expertise, knowledge, and commitment to FAO’s work, helping to translate strategic goals into meaningful local impact. In recognition of this milestone and our long-standing collaboration, a photobook, Legacy in Action: 80 years of volunteer impact with FAO, was released this year. Featuring testimonies from UN Volunteers who have served across FAO country and regional offices, the publication illustrates the transformative role of volunteers and the enduring value of our collaboration. 

Volunteerism should be at the heart of Africa’s next chapter

Lucy Ndungu, UNV Regional Manager for East and Southern Africa
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As 2025 draws to a close, we look back on a year shaped by profound global shifts. The humanitarian system remains overstretched, with more than 300 million people now requiring humanitarian assistance. Debt distress continues to narrow fiscal space for many countries. Climate shocks are intensifying, and artificial intelligence is advancing faster than most regulatory systems can keep pace.

For Africa, these shifts are not only challenges. They are also opportunities to reposition, to leapfrog, and to show that resilience can be paired with innovation. Across the region, governments, regional institutions, and the African Union are driving initiatives that seek to unify the continent, from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to cross-border climate adaptation projects. 

Celebrating International Volunteer Day with “Every contribution matters”

Global Launch United Nations General Assembly
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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.

Applauding volunteering for sustainable development at the United Nations General Assembly

The speech of UNV Executive Coordinator
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Toily Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV), delivered remarks at the global launch of International Volunteer Year 2026 and the State of the World’s Volunteerism Report at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Speaking on International Volunteer Day on 5 December, he highlighted the global impact of volunteers in peace, development, and human rights.

Madam President of the General Assembly, my fellow co-conveners, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen,

I stand here with the International Year 2026 logo in one hand and the 2026 report in the other.

This means either of two things:

First: it must be January somewhere.

Second: someone has decided to start the International Year a little early.

Frankly, this is exactly what you would expect from volunteers.

They are the first to arrive, the last to leave, and occasionally show up before the calendar allows them to do so.

⸻

IOM and UNV launch Mentorship Network for returning migrants in Africa

Dakar, Senegal
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The initiative will deploy a first cohort of 50 UN Volunteers as Community Mentors for returned migrants in Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Senegal and The Gambia. Most mentors are former migrants themselves, better positioned to provide guidance to people navigating the challenges of returning home after difficult journeys.

International Volunteer Day 2025

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“I lost my sight, but I never lost my vision”

UNV and UNICEF
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“I lost my sight, but I never lost my vision.”  With these words, UN Volunteer Sushil Adhikari sets the tone for a story of resilience and purpose. From facing discrimination and isolation as a child to becoming a voice for inclusion, he reminds us that advocacy is not just about speaking up—it’s about breaking barriers and creating a world where everyone belongs. On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we spotlight Sushil from the Youth Advocates programme, a collaboration of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Volunteers (UNV).

The Youth Advocates programme aims to give young people, including those with disabilities, a one-year professional experience through a UN Volunteer assignment with UNICEF to protect children’s rights. 

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