The International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development (5 December), more commonly referred to as International Volunteer Day (IVD), is an international observance mandated by the UN General Assembly in 1985. It offers an opportunity for volunteer-involving organizations and individual volunteers to promote volunteerism, encourage governments to support volunteer efforts, and recognize volunteer contributions to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at local, national, and international levels. International Volunteer Day is marked and supported by the United Nations Volunteers (UNV). UNV coordinates a campaign to promote IVD every year.
The International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution A/RES/40/212 on 17 December 1985.
A look at United Nations Volunteers' International Volunteer Day Campaigns
IVD 2025 - "Every Contribution Matters"
IVD 2024 – For the International Volunteer Day 2024, United Nations Volunteers (UNV) demonstrates its commitment to communities and the wellbeing of UN Volunteers across the globe through concrete community volunteer activities carried out with national and UN system partners.
IVD 2023 – "If Everyone Did" centers on the power of collective action.
IVD 2022 – "Together, act now"
The theme for this IVD is solidarity though volunteering — "Together, act now". The value of volunteers will be celebrated and recognized. While the world grapples with humanitarian and development challenges — amid wars and climate change, we need volunteers to work together for the common good.
IVD 2021 – "Volunteer now for our common future"
IVD 2021 is focused on decision-makers more than in the past. It is important to integrate volunteers and the spirit of volunteerism into national and global implementation strategies to achieve the SDGs and build an inclusive world. By volunteering, people take action to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. Therefore, the theme for this year's campaign is "Volunteer now for our common future".
IVD 2020 – "Together We Can Through Volunteering"
IVD 2020 emphasized gratitude for volunteers and their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
IVD 2019 – "For an Inclusive Future"
IVD 2019 focused on the diversity of volunteers and how volunteers themselves contribute to inclusion.
IVD 2018 – "Volunteers build Resilient Communities"
IVD 2018 celebrated volunteer efforts that strengthen local ownership and the resilience of the community in the face of natural disasters, economic stresses and political shocks. The event on 5 December 2018 focused on how volunteers can build resilient communities.
IVD 2017 - "Volunteers Act First. Here. Everywhere."
The focus of IVD 2017 was to recognize the positive solidarity of volunteers around the world who answer calls in times of crisis, helping save lives today and supporting those who want to continue living their lives with dignity tomorrow.