This story highlights the contributions of three women UN Volunteers to climate action in the Arab States. Personal dedication and aspiration to empower young people to act for the future of the planet are visible common threads that mark their work. By raising awareness, mentoring leaders in communities, and developing activities that promote climate-resilient livelihoods; these volunteers are helping lead the way to a more sustainable future.

Serving in a remote location that can only be reached by helicopter on the border between Sudan and South Sudan is Isabel Ramos (Portugal), an international UN Volunteer Environmental Officer with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). She is one of many women ensuring that UN operations around the world are environmentally responsible.

In Latin America, poverty, armed conflicts and the lack of access to essential services are obstacles to social equality. When it comes to the lives of displaced people, especially children, the vulnerabilities are even higher. On International Social Justice Day, we recognize the importance of volunteerism as a means of inclusion, empowerment and equality for displaced people.