National focal points for the International Volunteer Year (IVY) 2026 from countries around the world participated in a webinar along with the Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV). The discussion centered on taking stock of the preparations for the Year.
Participants highlighted strong momentum across countries, including national launch events, early action planning, and active regional and global engagement. They also underscored the central role of national‑level initiatives and the importance of sustained collaboration.
“We are developing an African perspective on volunteer data and strengthening our advocacy efforts, positioning Senegal as a capital of volunteerism in the Global South.” Seydina M. Ndiaye, IVY 2026 National Focal Point, Senegal.
The discussions brought forth a wide range of IVY 2026 initiatives currently underway— from Belgium’s year‑long programme of activities and China’s focus on volunteerism research to Ireland’s nationwide 26 for 26 volunteering challenge. Kazakhstan announced plans for a regional summit on environmental volunteerism, while the Philippines outlined efforts to better measure volunteering. Senegal highlighted its ambition to serve as a Global South hub for volunteerism. The Municipality of Maia in Portugal, which was recently awarded the title of European Volunteering Capital for 2026, also joined the webinar and shared its activities for IVY 2026.
“Ireland’s second National Volunteering Strategy will be launched this summer, and we continue to work on strengthening legal protections for volunteers.” Amy Woods, Head of Advocacy and Engagement, Volunteer Ireland.
Kazakhstan presented early progress, including the establishment of a National Organizing Committee and the rollout of a national action plan anchored in existing volunteer initiatives.
Toily Kurbanov, UNV Executive Coordinator, shared enthusiasm for the way forward, while participating in the webinar. “International Years only matter when they create real impact at the national level. I am here to listen, learn, and support your efforts. I appreciate your participation.”
To conclude the discussion, participants committed to working together throughout 2026, emphasizing that the International Year must deliver concrete progress for the communities on the ground.
Convened under the monthly IVY 2026 webinar series, the meeting enabled national focal points to receive updates, exchange insights, and strengthen coordination for the Year.
About IVY 2026: Adopted by the UN General Assembly through resolution 78/127, the International Volunteer Year 2026 calls on the global community to recognize and strengthen the role of volunteers in advancing sustainable development. IVY 2026 invites governments, UN entities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to foster safe, inclusive, and innovative volunteering environments and elevate the contributions of volunteers worldwide.
For more information and resources, visit IVY 2026 Knowledge Portal, IVY 2026 webpage or access related materials on IVY 2026 Trello.