IVY 2026 offers an opportunity to celebrate volunteers and their contributions on a global stage.
IVY 2026 offers an opportunity to celebrate volunteers and their contributions on a global stage.

UN General Assembly Proclaims 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development

United Nations Volunteers welcomes the historic resolution A/RES/78/127 by the United Nations General Assembly designating the year 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026).

The United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed 2026 the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. This milestone—achieved through the collaboration of Member States of the General Assembly—offers an opportunity to celebrate volunteers and their contributions on a global stage. 

As we look ahead to the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development in 2026, let's acknowledge the vital role of volunteers as change-makers who weave through the fabric of the 2030 Agenda, helping to accelerate action in the second half of our journey. Their commitment shapes a world where sustainable development is not merely a goal but a shared reality we create together,” said Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed.  

The United Nations resolution stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment and dedication of volunteers across diverse sectors, advocating for positive change and actively shaping a sustainable future. As the world prepares for the final push towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, this recognition amplifies the role that volunteers play in driving meaningful progress for the future.

The International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development in 2026 is a call for UN Member States to make volunteerism an integral cog in their development pathways to drive forward the Global Goals -- and a recognition that only through collective action and solidarity can we summon the strength to address the challenges that affect us all,” said UNDP Administrator, Achim Steiner.

United Nations Volunteers extends heartfelt gratitude to co-sponsoring countries for their instrumental support. 

Volunteering is where passion meets solidarity. As the UN General Assembly calls upon Member States and other stakeholders to recognize volunteers as a global force for change, we hope that passion will meet solidarity in every single corner of the world. UNV is grateful to the General Assembly for its confidence and is getting ready for 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development,” said UNV Executive Coordinator, Toily Kurbanov.

As we look ahead to 2026, United Nations Volunteers stands poised to collaborate, innovate, and amplify the voices and actions of volunteers towards a more equitable and sustainable world.

 

LOGO COMPETION FOR IVY 2026: A logo competition was organized from 12 December 2024 through 12 January 2025 to select the most suitable logo for IVY 2026.