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 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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Every meal tells a story: A volunteer's voice from Tajikistan

United Nations Volunteers
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In Tajikistan’s rugged mountains, a simple idea is transforming lives: feed children so they can learn. Through the World Food Programme’s school feeding initiative—supported by the Russian Federation and the Government of Tajikistan— 440,000 children in some 2,000 schools receive nutritious meals every day. These meals turn classrooms into spaces of hope, helping children learn, grow, and build healthy habits that will last for generations. Behind this impact is a network of partnerships and dedicated people, including volunteers who bring these stories to life. One of them is Elizaveta Smeshko, a Russian international UN Volunteer serving as an Associate Communications and Advocacy Officer with WFP.

When Elizaveta arrived in Tajikistan in January 2025, her goal was clear: shine a light on the school feeding programme funded by the Russian Government, which also funds her UN Volunteer assignment. But as her assignment unfolded, her role expanded—covering all WFP programmes in Tajikistan and making her work as dynamic as the country itself.

“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. 

United Nations Secretary-General's message on International Volunteer Day 2025

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UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, observed on 5 December, focuses on: Everyone has something meaningful to offer. 

“In an era of political division and social isolation, volunteering offers a powerful way to forge connections and foster our shared humanity.

On this International Volunteer Day, we honour the millions across the globe stepping forward to serve their communities and advance the greater good.

This year’s theme, “Every Contribution Matters”, reminds us that everyone has something meaningful to offer, and that every cause, from hunger to climate to humanitarian action, benefits from the enthusiasm and expertise of volunteers.

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