International Volunteer Day (IVD) mandated by the UN General Assembly, is held each year on 5 December. It is viewed as a unique chance for volunteers and organizations to celebrate their efforts, to share their values, and to promote their work among their communities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), United Nations agencies, government authorities and the private sector.

Did You Know?

• in 2019, there were 8,282 UN Volunteers, who served in 54 United Nations missions, agencies, funds and programmes across the globe.
• 13,186 online volunteers served virtually worldwide with 33 United Nations partners in support of 183 civil society organizations working on peace and development.
• 29% of UN Volunteers on-site were under the age of 29, and 51% were women.

On 5 December, people around the world will celebrate IVD with rallies, parades, volunteer fairs, group clean ups, blood donations, conferences, exhibitions, fundraising, workshops and volunteer recognition events.