KATHMANDU: Today is International Volunteer Day, which is observed annually on December 5 across almost all UN member states. World Soil Day is also being celebrated today. Both occasions are marked globally at the call of the United Nations.
International Volunteer Day was launched in 1985 with the aim of honoring the contributions of volunteers and promoting the spirit of volunteerism and service from the local to the international level. That same year, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared December 5 as the International Day of Volunteers.
Marking the occasion, the UN has stated that member states are expected to integrate volunteerism into their development strategies and commit to organizing national campaigns. Programs related to the day are being held today at the UN General Assembly Hall in New York.
In a message issued today, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed gratitude to volunteers worldwide. He highlighted that the sacrifice, courage, and humanity shown by volunteers—whether responding to natural disasters, supporting conflict-affected communities, or working to alleviate poverty—continue to inspire the world.
UN Volunteers are currently active in 169 UN member countries, contributing to peace, justice, and equality.
World Soil Day is also observed annually on December 5 to raise awareness about the importance of healthy soil and promote sustainable soil management. Discussions and campaigns are held globally on measures needed to protect soil, build sustainable agricultural systems, and reduce the impacts of climate change.
According to the UN, the day serves as a reminder for the global community to prioritize soil protection, recognizing soil’s crucial role in agricultural productivity, environmental balance, and overall human existence.
The United Nations declared World Soil Day in June 2013, with the goal of encouraging farmers, governments, scientists, and the general public to take active steps toward soil conservation.
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