On 5 December, on the launch of the International Volunteer Year (IVY 2026), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in recognition of volunteerism as a powerful driver for sustainable development, ESCWA renewed its commitment to UN Volunteers.
In his statement, Acting Executive Secretary of ESCWA Mourad Wahba emphasized:
“We have young women and men who support our work every day, driven by the spirit of volunteerism.” He added, “ESCWA operates in the Arab region, which is known for its solidarity and volunteerism, and from Beirut, we have witnessed the true meaning of volunteerism in the face of multiple crises.”
Throughout 2026, ESCWA will spotlight volunteerism through a series of initiatives, including activities within the Arab Forum for Sustainable Development, with the aim of engaging youth and partners to showcase the power of volunteering in building more inclusive and sustainable societies.
