The UN Volunteers (UNV) programme coordinates IVD on 5 December annually to recognise and promote the tireless work, not just of UN Volunteers, but of volunteers across the globe.

Rising inequalities throughout the world implore that we need to work together to find common solutions. Volunteers, drawn together by solidarity, develop solutions to urgent development challenges and for the common good.

Volunteering is where compassion meets solidarity. Both share the same root values – supporting each other from a position of trust, humility, respect and equality.

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.