International Volunteer Day for Economic and
Social Development is commonly known as the International Volunteer Day (IVD).
It is celebrated annually on December 5 in order to thank all those present
around the world who spend their time and efforts for voluntary service. It is
observed internationally ever since it was mandated by the UN General Assembly
in 1985.

UN headquarters in New York cordoned off after armed man seen outside

It is meant to encourage more people to act as
volunteers and the governments to support those who indulge in volunteerism by
recognising the work done by them in several areas which takes the world one
step closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) at local,
national or international level.

The theme for this year’s International Volunteer
Day is ‘Volunteer now for our common future’. The aim is to inspire all those
who will be the future decision makers and are responsible global citizens willing
to take charge and lead the fight for the people and the planet.

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery: History and significance

Celebrations on the International Volunteer
Day are coordinated by the United Nations Volunteers Programme (UNV) which
promotes and recognizes the work of all volunteers, not only those who
volunteered for UN programmes.

Every day thousands of volunteers set their priorities
aside in order to be able to make a small change in the world. It is their valour
and dedication which is the driving force behind climate action and advancement
of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Everything is finished: Middle-class Afghans slide into poverty, hunger

According to United
Nations, research shows that – compared with people who never volunteered – the
odds of being “very happy” rose by 7% among those who volunteer monthly and by
12% among those who volunteer every 2-4 weeks.

When more people are engaged in trying to
solve a problem, it is easier and quicker to find a solution which is feasible
and lasting. People centric movements pave the way for a better world for all
of us and the generations to come.