By Centre for European Volunteering (CEV)
2026 has been proclaimed by the UN General Assembly as the International Volunteer Year (IVY2026), recognising and celebrating the vital role of volunteers in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. IVY206 will highlight how volunteering and volunteer-driven action contribute to progress and development on diverse issues, particularly sustainability, climate, inclusion and community resilience.
The Centre for European Volunteering (CEV) is taking a leading role in the preparation and celebration of the year, ensuring that the volunteering and volunteers in Europe are visible, celebrated and connected throughout the year and beyond. Some of the initiatives CEV is involved in include the Global Call to Action; the partnership with other international non-governmental organisations in the context of the Thematic Committee on IVY2026 of the Conference of INGOs of the Council of Europe, and the coordination of the IVY2026 EU Action Forum. This will promote exchanges at EU level for volunteering stakeholders, as well as promote policy analysis and advice at EU level.
As IVY 2026 approaches, CEV invites organisations, public authorities, and citizens to get involved and to share their inspiring stories, join local activities, and champion the power of volunteering in everyday life, especially that which contributes to achieving the SDGs. Together, we can make IVY 2026 not only a celebration but a turning point for stronger, more sustainable Collaborative Communities across Europe and beyond.