Message of the Executive Co-ordinator of the United Nations Volunteers
for international volunteer day,
5 december 1998

Back in 1965, when a corps of volunteers under the blue flag of the UN was still only an idea, the then Secretary General, U Thant, made a prophetic statement. He said he looked forward to the time when the average youngster and parent, employer and employee would consider dedicating one or two years for the cause of development as a normal part of their education - whether abroad or in their own community.

His vision has in a way come true. What we witness today is a universal phenomenon, an unprecedented number of women and men coming together as volunteers to help shape the world in which they are living. Whether in the defence of human rights, safeguarding the environment or promoting women's empowerment, these people are determined to make a difference and they succeed in doing so. In our rapidly globalising world, this citizens' action can be a unifying force to tackle issues of worldwide concern.

Quite suddenly, it is no longer sufficient to think globally and act locally. Now we must act globally as well. And never have the needs been greater. Our global village is severely stratified: the dividing line runs deep between those who live in freedom and dignity and those without even food, shelter, education or basic health care.

By declaring 2001 the International Year of Volunteers, the UN General Assembly has given us all a unique opportunity to move volunteering to the centre of public and official opinion. Preparations for the Year are already well under way and will be scaled up in the months to come. We are determined to make the world see how much poorer it would be without the people who volunteer their time and talent for the benefit of others, simply because they care.

Margaret Mead once said: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Yet we are talking today not about a small group, but literally about millions joining forces to make that difference. What better reason could one think of to celebrate International Volunteer Day on December 5!

Sharon Capeling-Alakija
Executive Co-ordinator