Yet every day, volunteers hold communities together. A volunteer helps a child. Years later, that child may become the teacher, nurse, mentor, or community leader who helps someone else. One act of service leads to another. Communities are built this way, through an endless chain of people choosing to show up for one another. It is the circle of life in action, quietly shaping the future, often without recognition.

Good morning, everyone.Honestly, I didn’t expect this morning’s attendance to rival last night’s reception. So I haven’t prepared a special speech for this session. But I do have a few thoughts I’d like to share as we embark on the substantive dialogue.

Chairperson,High Commissioner,Distinguished Delegates.I am honoured to address the Executive Committee on behalf of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV). Established by the General Assembly in 1970, UNV contributes to peace and development through volunteerism worldwide. As a system-wide service entity, UNV deploys UN Volunteers across the United Nations system, including in support of refugees and the communities that host them.