On behalf of the International Year of the Volunteer National Steering Committee and international voluntary agencies

Once again, since 1985 when the United Nations declared December 5 International Volunteer Day, people are gathering globally to commemorate, celebrate, reflect and learn about volunteerism. In further recognition of volunteers, the United Nations General Assembly, in its 52nd session on 20 November 1997 made the decision to designate 2001 as the International year of Volunteers. This International Volunteer Day marks the launch of International Year of the Volunteer. Volunteers are known for stepping out and taking chances to affect positive social change. Starting on International Volunteer Day and extending throughout 2001 we should aim high ---social transformation through volunteerism. The work of volunteers should be recognized, honored and celebrated.

In Bhutan, the principles of volunteerism are very much alive in the social fabric of traditional community networks enabling mutual self-help and reciprocity. This is the essence of social capital which has strong potential for creating social cohesion, self and reliance and human development.

Alongside the traditional, contemporary forms of community organizing are taking place across the country to address issues concerning the environment, urbanization, disadvantaged groups, and cultural and social development. A recent publication reveals approximately 15 interest groups and organizations taking action to make a difference towards positive social change. These efforts should be recognized and commended for their valuable contributions to Bhutan's development.

Volunteerism is also represented in Bhutan through the efforts of the currently serving 75 international volunteers who are working in partnership with the Royal Government toward human resource development and service delivery across a wide range of sector programmes. Recent initiatives have begun to address, for example, the IT development needs of the country along with urbanization, administration and planning, health services and education.

In alignment with the global International Year of the Volunteer objectives of promotion, recognition and facilitation of volunteerism, a National Steering Committee and Task Force have been established. Both groups and are actively taking initiative to further strengthen the potentials of volunteerism towards benefit to Bhutan's development.

Looking forward, if volunteerism is to have a measurable impact and help consolidate communities and enhance participation, it needs to figure prominently in public policy and gain recognition an valuable, and valued, form of activity.

I would urge the Royal Government to examine the potential of national voluntary sector development in its' upcoming 9th FYP process. In this concern, the question of action demands close inquiry into the appropriate ways for volunteerism to be carried forward in Bhutan. Facilitation of volunteerism requires efforts at all levels - from government policy and programmes to community action groups to the concerned and committed individual. This facilitation could include strengthened policy and institutionalized support mechanisms to promote volunteerism. Community groups should be strengthened through coordination, skill building and participation towards sustained human development.

On behalf of the International Year of the Volunteer National Steering Committee and international voluntary agencies, I would extend our support and services to further development of the national voluntary sector and meeting the technical assistance needs of the country through international volunteers. Support to the Royal Government's priority areas for international technical assistance and support to the development of the national voluntary sector reflect our commitment. We look forward to more fruitful collaboration with the Royal Government.