INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY
International Volunteer Day was established by the UN General Assembly in 1985 to recognize the vital contribution of people engaged in volunteer activities to the well-being of society and the improvement of the lives of those in need around the world. Volunteering as a social movement originated in ancient times, when people voluntarily helped each other without expecting material reward.
This year, December 5th marks an important moment: the official launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, a global initiative that highlights the crucial role of volunteering in achieving sustainable development.
Volunteers contribute their time, skills, and heart to strengthen inclusion, support climate action, and progress the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Volunteering allows us to connect with our community and make it a better place. Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference to the lives of people, and organizations.
To understand the power of volunteerism, one must recognize that its true strength lies in its diversity and deep connection to human health and social well-being. Furthermore, the spirit of volunteering is essential to sport and health diplomacy. In this context, volunteering is a grassroots form of public diplomacy. When people volunteer internationally (or even locally by assisting newcomers), they build understanding, break down cultural barriers, and demonstrate global solidarity.
However, in its modern sense, it began to take shape in the 19th century. One of the significant milestones in the history of volunteering was the establishment of the International Red Cross in 1863 by the Swiss Henry Dunant. The movement was founded on the principles of aiding the wounded in military conflicts, regardless of their side. This event gave a start to a multitude of humanitarian initiatives.
After the First and Second World Wars, the volunteer movement became international. Volunteers participated in the reconstruction of war-torn cities and in medical and humanitarian operations. During this period, programs aimed at helping refugees, vulnerable populations, and developing education in poor countries were also launched. For instance, in 1961 in the USA, at the initiative of President John F. Kennedy, the Peace Corps was established, specializing in sending volunteers to developing countries to work in education, healthcare, agriculture, and other sectors.
In many countries, Volunteer Day is linked to global volunteer organizations and United Nations (UN) programs. The UN uses this day to promote its projects related to peacekeeping, sustainable development, and the implementation of various social programs.
For example: In the USA and Europe, award ceremonies for the best volunteers are held, along with campaigns to attract new volunteers. Educational programs are organized in schools and colleges that teach about the importance of volunteer work. Also on this day, many activities take place—from helping at animal shelters to environmental initiatives such as collecting trash and planting trees.
In Japan, on Volunteer Day, charity events and mass campaigns for fundraising to help those affected by natural disasters are held, which is particularly relevant for a country prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.
In India, Volunteer Day is mainly dedicated to social initiatives aimed at combating poverty, inequality, and environmental problems. In disadvantaged areas, volunteers organize educational programs and provide medical assistance to those in need.
Young volunteers of Turkmenistan are actively developing international cooperation. Great work is being done in this direction to study international experience within the framework of the UN Volunteer Program. The events being held with the active participation of young volunteers during the "Year of International Peace and Trust" clearly demonstrate this.
The young volunteers of our Homeland, Turkmenistan, consistently demonstrate their activity and skills both within the country and in cultural and mass events and sports competitions held at the international level. A vivid example of this is the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), which took place in Awaza in August, as well as the upcoming major celebration—an international forum that will be held in honor of the 30th Anniversary of the permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan.
Sahydovlet HUMMETJUMAYEV,
III year student Faculty of the International Relations
of the Institute of International Relations
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.