Irregular migration that takes place outside the laws, regulations or international agreements is common in Sierra Leone. Young people are often driven to seek economic opportunities across the country or in other countries, thus exposing themselves to risks. In this context, Koji Arasawa (Japan) shares his reflections on his service as a UN Volunteer with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the people of Nepal, with children and young people being among the most vulnerable. According to the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), two-thirds of children lack access to at least one of seven basic needs. Machiko Kitagawa (Japan) served as a UN Volunteer with UNICEF, playing a pivotal role in engaging adolescents and youth in the wake of COVID-19.