Volunteerism is a social innovation that is crucial to delivering the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in an inclusive manner, while ensuring that no one is left behind. The work of volunteers focuses on the people and reaching out to the underprivileged groups, while having the capacity to empower communities. The Thai Government, therefore, supports the participation of volunteers in the country’s development processes, and encourages the public to take part in volunteer work to drive forward sustainable development.

The United Nations has designated 5 December as the International Volunteer Day (IVD). This year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UN Volunteers (UNV) co-organised an event to commemorate this special occasion on 3 December 2021 at the UN Conference Centre, Bangkok, and online under the theme "Volunteer Now for Our Common Future". The aim of the event was to express appreciation to volunteers who have worked tirelessly for the people and communities to advance sustainable development, both in Thailand and abroad. In addition, the event also marked the 50th anniversary of the founding of the UNV, the United Nations agency advocating for volunteerism worldwide. High-level participants to the event include Ms. Ek-on Kunacharoen, Deputy Director-General, Department of International Organizations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ms. Shalina Miah, Regional Manager, Asia and the Pacific, UNV; Mr. Christophe Bahuet, UNDP Deputy Regional Director as well as the Diplomatic Corps.

On this occasion, the Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Organizations delivered a keynote address focusing on volunteers' role in driving forward the SDGs. At present, there are more than 13 million volunteers in Thailand, and their roles have become even more crucial in this Decade of Action to deliver the SDGs amidst the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. She also mentioned that Thailand would utilise the Global South-South Development Expo next September, which the country will co-host with the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation  and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific  to showcase best practices and experiences on volunteerism in advancing sustainable development worldwide.

The IVD 2021 received broad attention from various sectors, including representatives of government agencies, UN entities in Thailand, as well as Thai and UN volunteers. Many more also participated virtually. The recording of the event is available at https://www.facebook.com/UNVAsiaPacific.