International Volunteer Day is observed annually around the world with an aim to promote volunteerism, encourage governments to support volunteer efforts, and recognise volunteer contributions towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at local, national, and international levels.

Official Date: December 5

An international observance mandated by the UN General Assembly in 1985, International Volunteer Day witnesses campaigns carried out around the world in over 80 countries every year.

Key Focus Areas

• Increase awareness on the importance of volunteer service.
• Encourage more people from all walks of life to offer their services as volunteers.
• Facilitate smooth work of volunteers and create a strong communication network for them.
• Promote the benefits of voluntary service in terms of global crises.
• Ensure a positive impact from volunteer service in communities, nationally and globally, for peace and development.