A/RES/57/106
Acknowledging the existing contribution of the organizations of the United
Nations system to supporting volunteering, including the work of United Nations
Volunteers around the world,
Bearing in mind the need for an integrated and coordinated follow-up to the
International Year of Volunteers to be pursued in the relevant parts of the United
Nations system,
1.
Welcomes the report of the Secretary-General on the outcome of and
follow-up to the International Year of Volunteers, 2001;3
2.
Welcomes also the successful observance of the International Year of
Volunteers, 2001, with the support of one hundred and twenty-three national
International Year of Volunteers committees and the many regional and city
International Year of Volunteers committees with broad representation from
Governments, international organizations, civil society, including non-governmental
organizations, as well as the private sector, recognizes the contribution of States and
civil society organizations and alliances at the international, regional, national and
local levels to such a success, and encourages this network to be maintained and
expanded, as appropriate, with a view to further engaging all stakeholders,
undertaking volunteer-related research, disseminating information and experiences,
providing preparation and training to volunteers, particularly from developing
countries, and forging new partnerships at all levels;
3.
Welcomes further the various developments of policies and the enactment
of legislations for the growth and development of volunteerism taken up as a result
of the international year, and recommends that Governments continue to
acknowledge the valuable role of volunteers and further support voluntary activities,
including through appropriate policies and enabling legislation;
4.
Calls upon Governments and the United Nations system to implement
further the recommendations contained in the annex to its resolution 56/38, bearing
in mind the economic significance of volunteering;
5.
Calls upon Governments, with the active support of the media, civil
society and the private sector, to observe 5 December, International Volunteer Day
for Economic and Social Development, and to include activities focused on
following up on the achievements of the International Year of Volunteers in its
public
awareness-raising campaigns;
6.
Reaffirms the need to recognize and promote all forms of volunteerism as
an issue that involves and benefits all segments of society, including children, young
persons, older persons, persons with disabilities, minorities and immigrants and
those who remain excluded for social or economic reasons;
7.
Invites all stakeholders, especially from the private sector community
and from private foundations, to support volunteerism as a strategic tool to enhance
economic and social development, including by expanding corporate volunteering;
8.
Welcomes the work of the United Nations Volunteers, as the focal point
for the International Year of Volunteers, as well as their role in the preparations and
implementation of the Year, and requests them to continue their efforts, together
with other stakeholders, to raise awareness of volunteerism, increase reference and
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A/57/352.