The United Nations has announced 2026 as the International Year of Volunteering (IVY 2026), following an initiative proposed by Kazakhstan. The decision aims to recognize volunteering as a key driver of sustainable development and to strengthen social cohesion at the global level.
Through the International Year of Volunteering, the UN plans to draw attention to the contribution of volunteers in the social sector, humanitarian assistance, and crisis response. The organization emphasizes that volunteers play a crucial role in healthcare, education, environmental protection, humanitarian aid, and social support worldwide.
During IVY 2026, a series of international and national events are planned to promote the development of volunteering initiatives, facilitate the exchange of experience, and strengthen partnerships between the public and private sectors. Special attention will be given to creating conditions that attract young people and to expanding opportunities for digital volunteering.
The idea of declaring 2026 the International Year of Volunteering was proposed by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, during the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The initiative was announced from the General Assembly rostrum and later formalized as a resolution, which was supported by dozens of countries from different regions of the world.
