International Volunteer Day (IVD) 2025 is a global observance established by the UN General Assembly in 1985 to celebrate the power of volunteerism across the continent. What began as a UN mandate has evolved into a continental movement embraced by the African Union and its member states. IVD is a day to celebrate volunteers throughout Africa and to champion the spirit of volunteerism locally, nationally, and across the continent. It's a day where the African Union, through its various organs and institutions, stands alongside millions of African volunteers, shining a spotlight on the power of people-led solutions to tackle our shared continental challenges. Together, we demonstrate that when African communities take action, societies thrive and progress accelerates toward the Africa we want.
This year's Panel Discussion, under the inspiring theme "EVERY CONTRIBUTION MATTERS : HARNESSING THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF VOLUNTEERS 2026 FOR GREATER IMPACT" organised by African Union Youth Volunteer Corps takes on historic significance as it marks the official continental launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026) across African Union member states. This milestone follows UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/78/127 and aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The African Union recognizes that volunteers are essential drivers in achieving the continent's aspirations for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and the realization of "The Africa We Want".