During the visit, discussions focused on the continued development of Bonn as a United Nations duty station and the strong partnership between Germany and the United Nations system. Particular attention was given to the role of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme as the Common Service Provider for the UN Campus in Bonn.Supported by the Federal Government, the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and the City of Bonn, the city has developed into a reliable hub for international cooperation, reflecting Germany’s commitment to multilateralism.

In 2013, that conviction brought me to join as a national UN Volunteer Specialist with UNDP in the Dominican Republic. Together with over 1,000 volunteers, I coordinated a national survey across all 32 provinces in which more than 220,000 Dominicans participated, placing the country 8th out of 193 nations in a global citizens' consultation on development priorities. That experience confirmed something I have carried ever since: when people are genuinely invited to shape decisions that affect their lives, they show up. Every time. Because participation is not charity. It is dignity.

Four Years of ResilienceIn 2022, when the war started, Lysychansk was occupied. Like millions of Ukrainians, I became an internally displaced person. “IDP” is a term often used in reports and briefings. For me, it means leaving behind familiar streets, memories, and any sense of permanence.It means rebuilding stability while knowing the place you belong is no longer accessible.

Our age has no shortage of upheaval. Displacement today is not episodic; it is widespread. Conflicts endure, climates shift, and fragile systems strain under repeated shocks. In such a world, sympathy alone is insufficient. It must be organized, sustained, and given direction. Solidarity must become service.

Mr. Chair,Distinguished delegates,This is the fifth time I have the privilege of presenting the annual report of UNV to the Executive Board.First time when I was presenting in 2021, I was given 20 minutes to allow more time for dialogue among the Member States. The following year, it became 15 minutes, then 10, and now I have only five. I look forward to the challenge the board will set for me next year.