UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan opened the International Year of Volunteers 2001 this week by urging governments and institutions worldwide to recognise and celebrate the vital contributions of volunteers. "Societies need to recognise and promote volunteerism as a valuable activity. They must facilitate the work of volunteers, and encourage volunteer action at home and abroad," said Annan. "By calling upon volunteers and building partnerships with civil society, governments can help increase the efficiency of public services, and ensure that they reach more people. In these few words, the General Secretary had captured the essence of the four objectives of the IYV: recognition, facilitation, networking and promotion of volunteerism.

In 1997, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers. The government of Nepal was signatory to the resolution. The Bonn-based United Nations Volunteers (UNV), which has close to 5,000 UN volunteers serving in the field annually, was designated as the year's focal point.

"I believe that the contribution of volunteerism in creating and enhancing economic and social capital is one of the best-kept secrets of the modern world," said UNV Executive Coordinator Sharon Capeling-Alakija. "Volunteerism remains largely undervalued and overlooked as a positive force for social development. IYV 2001 can turn that around." Key objectives of the year will be to recognise the work of millions of volunteers from all walks of life and build global networks among them.

In Nepal, the National Steering Committee for IYV has scheduled the launch of IYV to be celebrated by the opening of a three-day Exhibition on Voluntarism at Bhrikuti Mandap Exhibition Hall, 15-17 December. It is expected to draw over 50 national and international organisations that operate in the voluntary sector.