Policies

The Global Volunteer Initiative (GVI)

Context and Issue

Since 2018, the Global Volunteer Initiative (GVI) has mobilized youth volunteers across various countries. Recognizing the power of volunteerism to empower and engage young people, GVI focuses on providing volunteer opportunities that equip youth with skills, mentorship, and valuable experiences, fostering a sense of agency as they embark on their professional journeys. Volunteerism emerges as a potent tool to cultivate changemakers among youth and address systemic inequities, aligning with the objectives of the Generation Unlimited (GenU) agenda.

Approach

GVI tailors its approach to each country's unique context, demographic targets, and priority areas for volunteer engagement. The GVI team collaborates closely with UNICEF country and regional offices, offering customized technical and strategic support. As a knowledge hub, GVI shares best practices fosters a community of practice and collaborates with other stakeholders to develop guidelines and standards. From conceptualization to operationalization, GVI partners with country offices every step of the way, ensuring that volunteer strategies align with local needs and realities. Volunteer engagement strategies vary by country, reflecting the specific operating environments and demographics.

Impact 

In Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, where natural disasters pose significant risks, young volunteers lead nationwide Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) training for children and schools. In Jordan, volunteers staff youth drop-in centers for refugees, providing essential support. In Colombia, young volunteers facilitate peace and reconciliation programs in communities affected by civil conflict. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers are critical in response and recovery efforts. Volunteers in South Africa and Bangladesh assist in the registration of vaccines and dispel myths and misinformation. Additionally, volunteers contribute to innovative approaches for delivering education and psychosocial support during the pandemic.

Analysis

The Global Volunteer Initiative is an opportunity for youth empowerment and community engagement, leveraging volunteerism to address pressing challenges and drive positive change worldwide. By placing countries and their unique contexts at the centre of its support, GVI ensures that volunteer efforts resonate effectively within local communities, fostering resilience and sustainable development.