General Research

IVCO 2020 Paper : Volunteering for Climate Action in Pacific Island Countries: Considerations for IVCO 2020

This paper starts with an overview of its reach and rationale, followed by an introduction that provides the context as to why the Pacific is a highly relevant (virtual) setting for the IVCO 2020 theme, Volunteering for Climate Action, and then discusses: 1.

IVCO 2020 Paper : Volunteering for Climate Action: Perspectives from a Survey of Volunteer Involving Organisations

To better understand the current action, gaps, and opportunities for volunteer-involving organisations (VIOs) to tackle climate change, this study reports on the results of a survey of VIOs’ activities and good practice models.

IVCO 2020 Paper : Volunteering for Climate Action

This paper explores the connection between volunteering and climate action.

IVCO 2020 Paper : COVID-19 and Volunteering for Development: Impacts, Innovations and Implications

This paper presents preliminary findings from a study commissioned by Forum to examine how the disruption of international volunteering by COVID-19 is impacting on the work of international volunteer cooperation organisations (IVCOs), other VIOs, partners and the communities they serve.

Forum Case Studies – COVID-19 and the Future of Volunteering for Development : Findings from a study conducted for the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum)

These case studies form part of the study commissioned by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development to examine the impact of COVID-19 on volunteers, volunteer involving organisations and volunteering for development.

Below the Waterline of Public Visibility : Guide on Roundtable on Volunteerism and Social Development

Voluntary action, under its many names and guises, is in most cultures deeply embedded in long-established, ancient traditions of sharing.

IVCO 2001 Report : October, 21-23, 2001, Prague

In October, 21-23, 2001, the International Volunteers Sending Conference was held in Prague.

IVCO 2002 Report : Nov 10-13, 2002, South Africa

Report from the IVCO 2002 conference.

Volunteerism and Capacity Development

In the context of current debates on the future of technical cooperation for capacity development, this paper sets out the important existing and potential roles of volunteers in capacity development.

Taking People out of Boxes and Categories : Voluntary service and social cohesion

Traditionally, the ‘haves’ have helped the ‘have-nots’ through philanthropic volunteering.

The Role of Volunteers in International Development : VSO Position Paper

VSO is a leading exponent of volunteering as a means of enabling sustainable change.

IVCO 2003 Report : November 9-12, 2003, Uganda

Trends, Added Value and Social Capital, 2004

The purpose of this discussion paper is, is to review current trends, innovation and best practices amongst international volunteer cooperation agencies regarding the added value of international volunteering.

IVCO 2004 Report : Collaborating for Change, 31 October – 3 November 2004, Oslo, Norway

IVSO 2004 was hosted by Fredskorpset in Oslo.

Cross-National Volunteering : A Developing Movement?

This extract reviews the extent and nature of cross-national volunteering and takes a critical look at the ways in which it is emerging as a powerful force in globalised civil society.

Hungarian Law on Volunteering

The Parliament recognizes volunteer activities based on solidarity among members of society that express volunteer action of citizens and are pursued by individuals and communities without remuneration and for the benefit of others.

European Civil Peace Corps feasibility study

This study, requested by the EU Commission, assesses the feasibility of the establishment of a European Civil Peace Corps (ECPC).

Review Concerning the Establishment of a European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps study

This report is the result of an external and independent review of some key aspects of the world of volunteerism as it is today, with its very real strengths, but also its limitations and expectations in relation to humanitarian aid.

The Forms and Structure of International Voluntary Service

International voluntary service (IVS) has a significant and growing presence worldwide.

Trends in International Co-operation and Volunteering, 2001 – 2006

For a number of years Forum has undertaken a survey of its members to understand and share what is happening in international volunteering throughout the world.

IVCO Survey, 2006

The following report presents results from the IVCO survey conducted by Development Initiatives.

Survey on Returning Volunteers

This paper is only available in German.

Keynote speeches

Arriving Where We Started – International Volunteering Cooperation and Global Civil Society: Michael Edwards, Director, Governance and Civil Society Unit, Ford Foundation.

Opportunities and challenges for international volunteer cooperation

For a number of years FORUM has undertaken a survey of its members to understand and share what is happening in international volunteering throughout the world.

The Converging World : Climate Change from a Perspective of the Process of Sustainable Living

The Right Person for the Job : International Volunteering and the Australian Employment Market

If you need a highly skilled employee with broad-based experience, then someone who’s spent the last two years in a developing country might be the right person for the job.

ICP Regional Report : An Exploration of Movements Toward National Youth Service Policy in 15 Countries in Eastern Europe and the Balkans

This regional report examines movements toward national governmental policies that involve young people in community service and volunteerism in 15 countries of Eastern Europe, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Estonia, Macedonia, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia and Montenegro, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Learning Opportunities of International Volunteers : AVI and University of Sydney Research Study

This report summarises findings of a research project undertaken in 2006-7, examining whether an international volunteer placement could contribute towards volunteers developing important workplace capabilities, including abilities relevant to creativity.

Future Trends 2007: Opportunities and challenges for international volunteer co-operation

For a number of years Forum has undertaken a survey of its members to understand and share what is happening in international volunteering throughout the world.

Background paper for panel on civil society and effective aid

At a meeting of the CSO International Steering Committee in Harnosand, Sweden, for the parallel process related to the Accra High Level Forum, we agreed to put together what we know of the schedules for the various regional consultations for the Advisory Group on CSOs and Aid Effectiveness.

Ireland’s Volunteering Support : Moblising People for Development

This document is about Irish non-governmental development organisations, in their varying shapes, sizes and views.

Future Trends : Opportunities and challenges for international volunteer co-operation

For a number of years Forum has undertaken a survey of its members to understand and share what is happening in international volunteering throughout the world.

Civil society and aid effectiveness concept paper

This paper is intended to provide a common, though evolving, frame of reference to guide AG-sponsored consultations in the pursuit of three outcomes: Better understanding and recognition of the roles of CSOs as development actors and as part of the international aid architecture, and engagement of CSOs in general discussions of aid effectiveness (recognition and voice) Improved understanding of the applicability and limitations of the Paris Declaration for addressing issues of aid effectiveness of importance to CSOs, including how CSOs can better contribute to aid effectiveness (applying and enriching the international aid effectiveness agenda) Improved understanding of good practice relating to civil society and aid effectiveness by CSOs themselves, by donors and by developing country governments (lessons of good practice).

Forum Discussion Paper 2007 : Climate Change

This discussion paper provides an overview of the implications of climate change on development organisations, in particular organisations concerned with international volunteering (International Volunteer Co-operation Organisations [IVCOs]).

Forum Discussion Paper 2007 : New Developments in Programme Models

This is the first in a series of discussion papers produced by Forum, which follows on from our research work on trends in International volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2007 : Voluntary Service and Public Engagement: What’s Happening? What’s New?

This is the second in a series of discussion papers produced by FORUM, which follows on from our research work on trends in International volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Volunteering for Impact – Best Practices in International Corporate Volunteering : Best Practices in International Corporate Volunteering

Multinational corporations invest significant time and money to deploy employee volunteers throughout the world.

7 examples of active North-South-North partnership

This paper is only available in French.

Climb High, Sleep Low : The Unique Learning Environments of International Volunteer Placements

International volunteering has traditionally been viewed as a pursuit that, while admirable, provided little benefit for the volunteer beyond altruistic satisfaction.

The Estimated Economic Value of a US Volunteer Abroad

The labor performed by domestic volunteers is commonly assigned an economic value to determine the product volunteers contribute to the national economy (Independent Sector, 2007).

Forum Discussion Paper 2008 : How do current trends in development and volunteering intersect with gender?

This is the forth in a series of discussion papers produced by FORUM, which follows on from our research work on trends in International volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Innovations in international youth volunteering : An analysis of 22 innovative youth volunteer programs from around the world

v is an independent charity championing youth volunteering in England.

Measuring Volunteerism in civic engagement

International Volunteering in its current form can be traced back the best part of 100 years and certainly its contemporary models are clearly recognizable in the initiatives of the 1950s and 1960s.

Indigenous Australian participation in international volunteering : Report on exploratory research

In May 2008, Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians were interviewed about the current participation of Indigenous Australians in the Volunteer Program (VP) of the Australian Government’s Agency for International Development (AusAID).

Civil Society Aid Effectiveness : Uniterra case study

The following text was drawn from the Case Book prepared for the 3rd High Level Forum on AID EFFECTIVENESS held in Accra, Ghana, September 2-4, 2008.

La valeur ajoutée des affectations de longue durée dans la coopération par l’échange de personnes

This paper is only available in French.

The Overseas Experience : A Passport to Improved Volunteerism

Canadians have a long history of volunteering beyond their borders.

Effects of International Volunteering and Service: Individual and Institutional Predictors

Despite unprecedented recent expansion of international volunteering and service (IVS), there has been relatively little research on impacts.

Global Poverty Project : Catalysing the movement to end extreme poverty

The challenges of poverty, hunger and disease loom large in the lives of hundreds of millions, exacerbated by rising fuel and food prices, triggering inflation that hurts those in extreme poverty the most.

Comhlámh Abstract : The Impact of International Volunteering on Host Organisations in India and Tanzania

This paper presents the main findings of research commissioned by Comhlámh1 into the impact of international volunteering on host projects and communities in India and Tanzania.

Cambodian NGOs’ Perceptions of International Volunteer Agencies

The purpose of the research was to explore host organizations’ perspectives of international volunteer agencies.

Into the Future : IVCO Paper on Options

This paper has been written by FORUM’s Executive to inform discussion on Wednesday 26 th November at IVCO 2008 in the session entitled “Moving Forward”.

Laws and Policies Affecting Volunteerism Since 2001

This Research Report represents an attempt to synthesize lessons learned since the International Year of Volunteers (IYV) in 2001 in order to promote best practices and analyze obstacles and impediments that continue to block the development of volunteerism law and policy.

European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps study, terms of reference

Terms of Reference for a review concerning the establishment of a European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps.

European Civil Peace Corps, terms of reference : FEASIBILITY STUDY ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A EUROPEAN CIVIL PEACE CORPS (ECPC)

The EU is seeking to improve the effectiveness of its assistance to third countries in times of crisis and in particular of non-military interventions at all stages of conflict,  including early warning, conflict prevention and crisis management.

Perceived Effects of International Volunteering: Reports from Alumni

In an era of rapid globalization, individuals frequently travel overseas to volunteer in distant communities.

Changes in Earnings in Brazil, Chile, and Mexico: Disentangling the Forces behind Pro-Poor Changes in Labour Markets, by Eduardo Zepeda

Despite the recovery of economic growth in Latin America during the 1990s, rising unemployment, high informality rates and sluggish wages lie at the root of high inequality and poverty.

Confronting Crises: Learning From Labour Markets in the Past, by Eduardo Zepeda

The current economic crisis is spreading to the developing world.

IVCO 2005 Conference Report : International Volunteers: Making a Difference in the World

EURO 2008 Conference Report : Best Practice in International Volunteering

In June 2008, a year on from our second European conference in Paris, we were delighted to hold another European conference of organisations involved in international volunteer co-operation in the new Irish Aid Volunteer and Information Centre in Dublin.

EURO 2005 Conference Report : 15-16 September, 2005, London

In September 2005, for the first time in five years, a European conference of organisations involved in international volunteer co-operation took place in London.

EURO 2007 Conference Report : 3-4 May 2007, Cité Universitaire, Paris

In May 2007 we were pleased to hold the European conference of organisations involved in international volunteer co-operation in Paris.

Comhlamh – Code of Practice for Sending Organisations

The Code of Good Practice has been developed as part of Comhlámh’s Volunteering Options Programme.

European Voluntary Service Charter and Fact Sheet

The European Voluntary Service (EVS) Charter is part of the ‘Youth in Action’ Programme Guide and highlights the roles of EVS sending, host and coordinating organisations and the main principles and quality standards of EVS.

A Coordinated Approach To Volunteering And Social Change

In Skillshare International’s Corporate Strategy 2005-2010 it was stated that “while our approach to organisational change has benefited individual organisations, a sector wide approach demands that we look to work beyond these boundaries.

Forum Discussion Paper 2009 : Volunteers: Catalysts for Social Engagement

This is the fifth in a series of discussion papers produced by FORUM, which follows on from our research work on trends in International volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

EURO 2005 Conference Report : 15-16 September, 200, London

In September 2005, for the first time in five years, a European conference of organisations involved in international volunteer co-operation took place in London.

Interface of international volunteering and national youth programmes : Perspective from a local organisation

Continuing on the theme of Local Perspectives, Catherine Cecil from Youth Star Cambodia presented on some research that Youth Star conducted in partnership with United Nations Volunteers in 2008.

Gender Mainstreaming : How do current trends indevelopment and volunteering intersect with gender?

This is the forth in a series of discussion papers produced by FORUM, which follows on from our research work on trends in International volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Mainstreaming Conflict Resolving Approaches

Recently, United Nations Secretary-General BAN Kimoon stressed explicitly that the Millennium Development Goals “embody the rights of each person on the planet to health, education, shelter and security”.

Lighting a Fire : VSA’s role in promoting education leadership in the Solomon Islands

This study examines Volunteer Service Abroad’s (VSA) contribution to in-service teacher training in the Solomon Islands, and the role of New Zealand volunteers in strengthening educational leadership.

International volunteers’ perceptions of intercultural competence

Although international volunteer sending organizations vary greatly, nearly all claim that volunteering will increase intercultural competence.

Rethinking Tokelau Education : Tokelau and the role of New Zealand volunteers

The purpose of this study is to review and evaluate Volunteer Service Abroad’s (VSA) Tokelau programme and identify the impacts of the work of 26 New Zealand volunteers undertaking 28 volunteer assignments between 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2010.

The Coming Home Book : For returned overseas volunteers, development workers, humanitarian workers and missionaries

The Coming Home Book for volunteer sending agencies is an EU-sponsored resource developed as part of the EU project ‘Back to the Future’.

Assessment of Results : FK in Nepal, Norway and Ethiopia Final Report Summary

The report Assessment of Results-FK in Nepal Norway and Ethiopia is a review that Nordic Consulting group (NCG) was commissioned to do by Fredskorpset (FK) Norway.

Forum Discussion Paper 2010 : Climate Change

This is the sixth in a series of discussion papers produced by FORUM, which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Forum Research 2010 : Emerging Perspectives on International Volunteerism in Asia

Dr Margaret Sherradan’s research, publishing, and teaching activities focus on access and equity in domestic and international social policies, social and economic development, asset building and financial education, immigration and health, and global social policies.

Forum Discussion Paper : Climate Change and the Development Agenda

This is the sixth in a series of discussion papers produced by FORUM, which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Where Would the World be Without Volunteering? : The impact of volunteering in international development

Meaningful and lasting change comes about when people work in partnership, helping each other achieve their goals.

A Mapping Exercise into International Volunteer Co-operative Agencies 2009

This paper was first written to stimulate discussion at the IVCO Conference in November 2008 in Cambodia.

Safety and Security Highlights to Help You Prepare for Peace Corps Service

This guide is aimed at Peace Corps Volunteers.

Uniterra Result-Based Management System : Explanations for the planning, monitoring – evaluation, and reporting tools

Appropriate planning of activities, monitoring of progress on achievement of outcomes with the volunteers and the partners, and reporting are very important stages for the implementation of Uniterra.

State of the World’s Volunteerism Report : Universal Values for Global Well-being

The focus of this report is on the universal values that motivate people the world over to volunteer for the common good and on the impact of volunteer action on societies and individuals.

Uniterra Volunteer Cooperation Program 2010-2011 : Annual narrative report and summary

In 2010-2011, economic difficulties and the international situation exacerbated social tensions and provoked severe crises.

Basic guide for information work

This paper is only available in French.

Participative methods and intercultural challenges : When deep commitment leads to deep conflict – or why cultural fluency is essential in international cooperation

Working in international cooperation, across cultures, implies potential conflict situations.

Civil Society Volunteering Patterns in Africa : An analysis of the CIVICUS Civil Society Index 2008-2011 findings on volunteerism

The CIVICUS Civil Society Index (CSI) findings present a picture of volunteering and voluntary action in the African context that is shaped by cultural, historical, socio-economic and political dynamics.

International Service Perspectives from Weltwärts and ICYE Volunteers – Draft

This research looks at a variety of outcome areas on international volunteers serving with the Weltwärts and ICYE volunteer sending-programs.

Forum Discussion Presentation 1 : Valuing Volunteering in Africa

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is the UN organization that contributes to peace and development through volunteerism worldwide.

Forum Discussion Paper : The state of youth volunteering in Africa: stepping back so that young people can step forward

This is the eighth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International FORUM on Development Service (FORUM), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2011 (draft) : Capacity Development

This is the ninth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International FORUM on Development Service (FORUM), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2011 : Changing Patterns of State Funding for International Volunteering

This is the seventh in a series of discussion papers produced by the International FORUM on Development Service (FORUM), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2011 : The State of Youth Volunteering in Africa

This is the eighth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International FORUM on Development Service (FORUM), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Benefits of the Leave for Change Program

Leave for Change® is a program that offers tangible benefits to employers, wonderful professional and personal development to staff and also strong support to organizations in developing countries.

Evaluation of DFID’s International Citizens’ Service (ICS) Pilot Programme : Final Project Completion Review

This study is an independent review of the pilot phase of the UK Government’s International Citizen Service.

Youth Volunteer Exchange Programmes in Southern and Eastern Africa: Models and Effects

This research report explores two different models of youth volunteer exchange programmes in the southern and eastern African regions that contribute to development goals and integration.

…so that Personnel Development Co-operation has a lasting effect : Interviews with co-ordinators in the South

Living the co-operation without forgetting that “we are guests in the South”… Help over-come the wounds from past colonial rule … Daily practice of modesty in the relationships of mutual learning … Breaking the vision of “knowledge transfer” by replacing it with the paradigm of horizontal exchange in the framework of co-operation designed as a “two-lane road and not a one-way street.

Forum Discussion Paper 2012 : MDGs, Sustainable Development Goals and the Post 2015 agenda: opportunities for consolidating the recognition of volunteerism

This is the tenth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum on Development Service (Forum), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and cooperation in recent years.

International Service and the Perceived Impacts on Volunteers

Although international volunteer service is growing in prevalence worldwide, there is little rigorous research about its impacts.

Inspiring Employee Volunteering – China Research Study : Inspiring Corporate Volunteering in China

VSO China and Beijing Normal University are pleased to present this Corporate Volunteering Research Study on the status of Corporate Volunteering in China.

Executive Summary, Forum Research 2012 : Participatory Research on the Impact of International Volunteerism in Kenya

The value of international volunteer-driven development is a question of debate and occasional scepticism, and contrasting viewpoints each have merit.

Forum Research 2012 : Participatory Research on the Impact of International Volunteerism in Kenya

The value of international volunteer-driven development is a question of debate and occasional scepticism.

Forum Discussion Paper 2012 : Assessing the Impact of International Volunteer Cooperation - Guiding Questions and Canadian Experiences

This is the eleventh in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum on Development Service (Forum), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and cooperation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2012 : Youth International Volunteering and Development - an Opportunity for Development, International Understanding or Social Inclusion?

This is the twelfth in a series of discussion papers produced by Forum, which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Study on Youth Volunteering Perceptions and Motivation in South Africa

This study is part of the National Youth Development Agency’s three-year initiative to advance youth volunteering in South Africa.

Findings of the Pilot Study on the weltwärts Programme Volunteer Survey

This report presents the findings of the pilot annual volunteer survey.

UNV Programme Strategy Overview : Volunteerism for Peace and Development

This overview of the UNV Programme Strategy summarizes the programme approach of UNV, outlining the focus of its work and defining realistic and practical ways to embed volunteerism into peace and development activities.

Comhlámh’s Survey on International Volunteering from Ireland 2013

This research report is based on quantitative data emerging from an online survey issued to volunteer sending agencies (VSAs) in Ireland.

It’s the Invisible Things : An Evaluation of the Volunteer Program in China 1988 - 2013

Between 1988 and 2013, Australian Volunteers International placed 180 Australian volunteers with 65 partner organisations in China under the Australian Government-funded Volunteer Program, now Australian Volunteers for International Development.

Comhlámh’s Code of Good Practice for Volunteer Sending Agencies

The Comhlámh Code of Good Practice (CoGP) for Volunteer Sending Agencies is a set of standards for organisations involved in facilitating international volunteer placements in developing countries.

CSD Research Brief 13-14 : International volunteering from the United States between 2004 and 2012

Between 800,000 and 1,100,000 individuals in the US reported volunteering internationally each year from 2004 to 2012.

CSD Research Brief 12-08 : International volunteerism in the United States, 2004-2010

Between 800,000 and 1,100,000 individuals reported volunteering internationally each year from 2004 to 2010.

CSD Report 11-19 : International Service & Higher Education: Toward a Vision for the Field

How do students learn the skills necessary to work with those who are different from themselves?

What Next : A toolkit for returned volunteers

The What Next toolkit for returned volunteers is an EU-sponsored resource, developed by 3 organisations (Comhlámh, finep and SWM) as part of the ‘Back to the Future’ project.

Voluntary Service Project : Sector summary report

In 2012, Australian Red Cross undertook a strategic renewal of voluntary service to ensure that Red Cross clearly position itself to meet the humanitarian needs of the future.

New Evidence on Overseas Volunteering from Ireland : And it's socio-economic impact in Ireland

This report has been prepared for Comhlámh by Dr Pat McCloughan, Managing Director of PMCA Economic Consulting.

Capacity Building Contributions of Short-Term International Volunteers

Previous research suggests that international volunteer service may have both positive and negative effects on host organizations.

Innovations with Evaluation Methods : Lessons from a Community of Practice in International Development

This research report is a collection of stories of innovation in planning and evaluation from members of Bridging Gaps, a community of practice of ten Civil Society Organizations who came together to; Develop learning systems that balance and integrate collaborative planning, evaluation and inquiry; and Document the CoP’s innovation in learning systems research so as to facilitate dialogue with broader networks and donors on ways to combine learning with accountability.

Models of International Volunteering : Trends, innovation and good practice

This research report has been prepared for Comhlámh by Volunteer and Service Enquiry Southern Africa (VOSESA).

Forum Position Paper 2013 : Forum and the post-2015 development agenda

This paper follows a 2012 survey of Forum members by Peter Devereux, for UNV; the presentation of the paper, MDGs, Sustainable Development Goals and the post 2015 agenda: opportunities for consolidating the recognition of volunteerism (Peter Devereux and Kornelia Guse) at Forum’s IVCO meeting in Canada in October 2012; the Ottawa Declaration; and Forum members’ participation at the London High Level meeting in January, and contribution of an on line submission as part of the preparatory process for the second high level meeting in Monrovia.

Plenary presentation and Discussion : Advocating for people-centred development in the post-2015 agenda : Engaging in the process nationally, regionally and globally

Over the past decade, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) have generated unprecedented global efforts to reduce poverty and inequality.

Keynote Address : If post 2015 and the upcoming Sustainable Development Goals are an opportunity for Forum members and VIOs - what to do next?

Research Marketplace and World Forum : opportunites for knowledge sharing and networking

Today, international volunteering organizations as well asresearchers are working on varioustopics around international volunteering: new trends of volunteering (south-south,south-north, diaspora volunteering,…),specific impacts of the volunteering experience on the volunteer’s life-path, as well as on sending and hosting-societies, new ways of conveying the specificities of volunteering and its effects on poverty reduction, are some of the numerous issues being tackled by current research.

Forum Discussion Paper 2014 Concept Note : The interface between international and national volunteering

Some recent developments indicate that IVCOs engage with national volunteering in the countries where they place volunteers, and in some cases are adding national volunteering programs to their repertoire of activities.

Diaspora volunteers and international development : An Autoethnographic Research Project

This research project was undertaken by Solomon Belay Faris (PhD) to document the role played by diaspora volunteers in international development as part of a series of researches done by the Association for Higher Education and Development (AHEAD).

Promising Practices from Sub‐Saharan Africa

This study of 17 youth service programmes in Sub-Saharan Africa and youth service programmes in five countries outside of the region was conducted in 2013 in the context of chronic issues of unemployment for young people and consequent discouragement.

Executive Summary, Forum Discussion Paper 2013 : Measuring and Conveying the Added Value of International Volunteering

This is the executive summary of the thirteenth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (‘Forum’), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2013 : Measuring and Conveying the Added Value of International Volunteering

This is the thirteenth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (‘Forum’), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and co-operation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2013 : Advocating for People Centered Development in the Post-2015 Agenda

Engaging in the Process Nationally, Regionally and Globally Over the past decade, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) have generated unprecedented global efforts to reduce poverty and inequality.

Examining the Geopolitics of Aid in Education : A Comparison of the United States Peace Corps and the Nigeria Technical Aid Corps in Namibia

This paper compares the United States Peace Corps and the Nigeria Technical Aid Corps in the simultaneous engagement with the education service in Namibia.

Findings of the 2014 weltwärts Programme Volunteer Survey

This report presents the findings of the second annual volunteer survey.

Catalogue of quality standards for the weltwärts programme

This document sets out in tabular form the requirements and targets in relation to quality for different aspects of the volunteer journey.

Political Origins of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, 1960–1965 : Why the State Sends Young Volunteers Abroad

This paper examines the political origins of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) through the lens of two research questions: (1) Why did the Japanese government undertake the JOCV project in 1965?

UNV in Action: Advocating for volunteerism post-2015

The UNV Overview on Advocating for volunteerism post-2015 presents UNV’s vision on volunteerism and sustainable development, along with examples of volunteers’ work in the post-2015 context.

International Volunteering : An Investment in Development

The report is based on extensive field research with Australian volunteers and the organisations that host them overseas.

Key messages on the Role of Volunteerism in shaping and implementing an inclusive and sustainable development agenda for the future 2014

This document outlines the key messages on the Role of Volunteerism in shaping and implementing an inclusive and sustainable development agenda for the future 2014, as well as Forum’s call for volunteerism to be recognised and supported as a mechanism for the successful delivery of the post-2015 goals.

Online Volunteering : A Comhlámh Discussion Paper

Launched on International Volunteer Day 2014, this paper aims to inform volunteer sending agencies, volunteers, international development organisations and policy makers about the facets, features and benefits of online volunteering for development.

Capacity Development Plans : Trialling New Ways of Working Together in the Australian Volunteers for International Development (AVID) Program

Capacity Development Plans (CDPs) are part of Australian Volunteers International’s effort to employ a more strategic partnership approach with overseas partner organisations under the Australian Volunteers for International Development program.

Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of International Volunteer Assignments : A 10-Year Analysis

This research brief summarises the key findings of a study that sought to understand the factors that contribute significantly to the effectiveness of a volunteer assignment and the implications of these factors for Australian Volunteers International (AVI).

Contributions of Australian Volunteers International Volunteers in the Middle East

Since 2001, Australian Volunteers International (AVI) has managed the Australian Government-funded volunteer program in the Middle East, providing support to partner organisations across Lebanon, Jordan and Syria.

Diaspora Volunteering : A Comhlámh Discussion Paper

This paper outlines the benefits of involving diaspora communities in international volunteering from Ireland.

Comhlámh’s Volunteer Charter

Comhlámh’s Volunteer Charter is a guide for people who are going to volunteer overseas 
in developing countries.

Forum Paper 2014 : Cross-sector collaboration and volunteering trends in Latin America and the Caribbean

International volunteer opportunities vary greatly from region to region.

Forum Discussion Paper 2014 : Convergence and International Volunteer Cooperation

This is the fourteenth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and cooperation in recent years.

UNV-Forum Paper 2014 : International Volunteering and Governance

This research paper summarises the UNV-Forum-commissioned report on International Volunteering and Governance.

International Citizen Service (ICS), 2012-15 Programme Statistics on participating UK volunteers, by age and by region

This paper contains the statistics on the UK ICS programme published by DFID in relation to diversity targets for UK volunteers.

Findings of the 2015 weltwärts Programme Volunteer Survey

This report presents the findings of the third annual volunteer survey.

“Shining a Light on Disability” : Supporting and Promoting Disability Inclusion in Lesotho

Between 2007-2013, Australian Volunteers International placed 10 volunteers across six government and NGO partner organisations to support disability inclusion in Lesotho through the Australian government-funded volunteer program, Australian Volunteers for International Development.

Valuing Volunteering : The Role of Volunteering in Sustainable Development

This report summarises findings from the global action research project ‘Valuing Volunteering’.

Volunteer Groups’ Position Paper to the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2015

On the 1st May, the Post-2015 Volunteering Working Group on behalf of “Volunteer Groups” submitted a Position Paper to the High Level Political Forum (HLPF) session of 2015.

From Volunteers to Active Citizens

This resource, a curriculum for volunteer sending agencies, was produced by a group of 7 EU-based organisations working with returned international volunteers across Europe.

Forum Discussion Paper 2015 : Balancing Donor Priorities and the Civil Society Function - A Challenge for Modern IVCOs

This paper examines ways that modern donor practices may challenge IVCOs’ alignment with the interests of civil society in partner countries—particularly in circumstances where a strong focus on service delivery and poverty eradication limit support for grassroots movements aimed at transformational structural and social change.

UNV “State of the World’s Volunteerism Report” Launch

The State of the World’s Volunteerism Report 2015 is the first global review of the power of volunteer voices to help improve the way people are governed.

Plenary Presentation : Implications of the SDGs on IVCOs

Forum members have been working at the highest levels to have volunteering recognized as an effective means of delivering development results and to have volunteering included in the SDGs, as evidenced by the Ottawa and Lima Declarations.

Forum Discussion Paper 2015 : Documenting the Contribution of Volunteering to the SDGs

This is the sixteenth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and cooperation in recent years.

A Call to Peace : Perspectives of Volunteers on the Peace Corps at 50

The Peace Corps emerged late in the 1960 presidential campaign, yet ignited one of the most instantaneous responses.

The Evolution of International Volunteering

This paper reviews the historical evolution of international volunteering from the early-mid 20th century and the important coordinating and facilitating role played by international voluntary service networks.

Towards a theory of effective cross-cultural capacity development: the experiences of Australian international NGO expatriates in Vietnam

Capacity development (CD) partnerships between highly qualified expatriates and host-country counterparts are a commonly used tool by non-government organisations (NGOs) working in international development.

Forum Discussion Paper 2015 : Documenting the Contribution of Volunteering to the SDGs - The challenges and opportunities of universal SDGs for IVCOs and volunteer groups

This paper discusses options for documenting and showcasing the collective contributions of a diverse community of volunteers to sustainable development, in the context of the adoption by the United Nations of the universal Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in September 2015, and highlights the challenges and opportunities this presents for Forum members.

Volunteer Disappointment and Outcome of Activities: Regional Perspective of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV)

Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) are dispatched to a range of countries around the world, where they work with people from local communities to provide expertise and training in programs related to education, healthcare, and other kinds of technical assistance.

Statistical Report of Crimes against Volunteers 2016

The Statistical Report of Crimes Against Volunteers 2016 provides summary statistics of reported crime victimizations of Peace Corps Volunteers and trainees that occurred in calendar year 2016.

Annual Volunteer Survey Results Global Tabular Report

This report analyzes the results from the Peace Corps’ 2016 Annual Volunteer Survey.

Volunteering as Essential in Achieving Sustainable Development : UNV Responding to the 2030 Agenda

This discussion paper was submitted as part of the Administrator’s 2016 Report.

Findings of the 2016 weltwärts Programme Volunteer Survey

This report presents the findings of the fourth annual volunteer survey.

Chinese Volunteering in Africa : Drivers, Issues and Future Prospects

Due to the growing importance of people-to-people diplomacy in China’s global strategies this is a momentous time for China’s international development volunteering.

Volunteer Groups’ Position Paper to the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2016

On 25 April 2016, the Volunteer Groups Alliance on behalf of “Volunteer Groups” submitted a Position Paper to the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) session of 2016.

Forum Discussion Paper 2016 : Why Measure and for Whose Benefit? Addressing the Challenges of Measuring the Contribution of Volunteering for Development in a Multiple Stakeholder Environment

This is the seventeenth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and cooperation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2016 : AKLHUE-Forum Trends Survey: Understanding the Patterns of Volunteering for Development. An Initial Baseline Survey of International Volunteer Cooperation Organisations

This is the nineteenth in a series of discussion papers produced by the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum), which follows on from our research work on trends in international volunteering and cooperation in recent years.

Forum Discussion Paper 2016 : The Interface Between International and National Volunteering and the Implications for IVCOs (in a Universal Global Goals World)

This paper is to encourage constructive discussion on the interface between international and national volunteering and the opportunities and challenges this provides for IVCOs in a universal Global Goals world.

Global Partners for Sustainable Development : The Added Value of Singapore International Foundation Volunteers

This year marks the 25th year since the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) began its Volunteer Cooperation programme to contribute to positive and sustainable development in Asia as Singaporean volunteers work alongside their counterparts overseas to share expertise and effect change, while fostering greater intercultural understanding.

Engaging Returned Volunteers in Active Citizenship : Research, learning and best practice from four countries

This report presents the findings from research into active citizenship in volunteering undertaken as part of the Volunteering for the Future project.

Effective volunteer placements : The importance of good relationships with host-country counterparts

This briefing summarises an ongoing research project examining conditions that contribute to effective working relationship between international development volunteers and local host-country counterparts.

Guide de l’engagement au retour

Guide to encourage returned volunteers to stay involved.

Evaluation of the pilot project Country Contact Persons of the weltwärts development volunteer service : Executive Summary

This evaluation looked at the performance and effectiveness of the Country Contact Person (CCP) model introduced into weltwärts following the programme evaluation in 2012.

The Peace Corps’ Congressional Budget Justification : Fiscal Year 2018

The annual submission for budget support to the US Congress requires extensive detailed evidence of activity on the part of Peace Corps and statistical profiles of Peace Corps Volunteers.

Department for International Development : International Citizen Service

The review of ICS by the UK National Audit Office was to inform DFID’s consideration of the programme’s future.

How do International Volunteering Characteristics Influence Outcomes? Perspectives from Partner Organizations

This study examines how different types of international volunteering influence common program outcomes such as building organizational capacity, developing international relationships, and performing manual labor.

From Local Lives to Lasting Legacies : Raleigh International’s long-term effect on in-country volunteers

This pilot study examines the long-term effect of Raleigh International’s Expedition programme on volunteers in Namibia and China who took part in Raleigh’s programmes between 1998 and 2004.

IVCO 2017 Sub-Theme Paper – Measurement

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2017 and is one of a series of papers exploring this year’s conference theme Implementation of the SDGs through transformative partnership in volunteering.

IVCO 2017 Sub-Theme Paper – Innovation

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2017 and is one of a series of papers exploring this year’s conference theme Implementation of the SDGs through transformative partnership in volunteering.

IVCO 2017 Sub-Theme Paper – Enabling Environment

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2017 and is one of a series of papers exploring this year’s conference theme Implementation of the SDGs through transformative partnership in volunteering.

IVCO 2017 Framing Paper : Implementation of the SDGs through transformative partnership in volunteering

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2017 and is one of a series of papers exploring this year’s conference theme Implementation of the SDGs through transformative partnership in volunteering.

The South-North component of the development volunteers service weltwärts : Summary of the evaluation

The objective of the evaluation was to conduct an independent external assessment of the design, implementation and impacts to date of the South-North component of weltwärts, and to evaluate its procedures, organisation and quality management.

Volunteer Groups’ Sectoral Position Paper to the High-level Political Forum (HLPF) : On the theme of “Eradicating poverty and promoting prosperity in a changing world”

Volunteers and volunteer effort are essential to the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda, and to achieving the aim of eradicating poverty and promoting prosperity.

Executive Summary : Volunteer Groups’ Sectoral Position Paper to the High-level Political Forum (HLPF) on the theme of “Eradicating poverty and promoting prosperity in a changing world”

Volunteers and volunteer effort are essential to the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda, and to achieving the aim of eradicating poverty and promoting prosperity.

Impact Investing : A Tool for New Partnerships for Sustainable Development

Defined as investments “made into companies, organizations, and funds with the intention to generate social and environmental impact alongside a financial return,” impact investing is a $120 billion industry practised by asset owners (such as pension plan members, high-net worth families, corporations, governments), asset managers (managers of private equity funds, endowments, development finance institutions, etc.

Changing Perspectives: Incoming Voluntary Services

Voluntary service organisations in Germany are becoming increasingly internationally based.

Effective Practices of International Volunteering for Health: Perspectives from Partner Organizations

The demand for international volunteer experiences to promote global health and nutrition is increasing and numerous studies have documented the experiences of the international volunteers who travel abroad; however, little is known about effective practices from the perspective of partner organizations.

Volunteer Groups’ Thematic Paper to the HLPF 2018

The value of international volunteer-driven development is a question of debate and occasional scepticism, and contrasting viewpoints each have merit.

Executive Summary Volunteer Groups’ Thematic Paper to the HLPF 2018

The value of international volunteer-driven development is a question of debate and occasional scepticism, and contrasting viewpoints each have merit.

IVCO 2018 Theme Paper 1 : Inclusive Development Policy for Women and Youth

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2018, the International Volunteer Cooperation Organisations’ Conference.

IVCO 2018 Theme Paper : Inclusive Development Practice for Women

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2018, the International Volunteer Cooperation Organisations’ Conference.

IVCO 2018 Theme Paper : Inclusive Development Practice for Youth

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2018, the International Volunteer Cooperation Organisations’ Conference.

IVCO 2018 Resource Paper : Active citizenship, civic engagement and global citizenship

The potential for volunteers to remain involved in action for development following an international placement has long been recognised, both by organisations involved in international volunteering and by volunteers themselves.

IVCO 2018 Framing Paper : Inclusive development for women and youth: where are we at?

This paper has been produced for IVCO 2018, the International Volunteer Cooperation Organisations’ Conference.

Making a World of Difference at Home and Abroad: Prosocial Activities and Aspirations of Returned International Volunteers : ARNOVA Conference Paper, 2019

This paper documents the long-term impacts of international development volunteering (IDV) in relation to the prosocial behaviours, careers and community activities of returned international volunteers (RVs).

Pilot project South-North Component of the weltwärts program: Strategy

This paper sets out the model for the pilot South-North component of weltwärts, the objectives of the program and the requirements placed on volunteers and other stakeholders.

Executive Summary Volunteer Groups’ Thematic Position Paper to the HLPF 2019

Volunteer Groups’ Thematic Position Paper to the HLPF 2019

IVCO 2019 Paper : Élaboration de la norme pour le volontariat au service du développement

This paper will be discussed at IVCO 2019.

IVCO 2019 Paper : An African-centred approach to quality in practice? Insights from East African volunteer involving organisations

Using examples from organisations in East Africa, this paper examines emergent efforts at quality improvement, standards setting and accreditation for volunteering in the African context.

IVCO 2019 Paper : Measuring the collective impact of Forum members & associate members

This paper addresses the work of international volunteer cooperation organisations to measure, understand and learn from the scale and nature of their collective work, and to address its contribution to development.

IVCO 2019 Paper : Vers une approche afro-centrée de qualité? Quelques perspectives d’organisations impliquées dans le volontariat en Afrique de l’Est

This paper will be discussed at IVCO 2019.

IVCO 2019 Paper : Developing the Global Standard for Volunteering for Development

This paper was discussed at IVCO 2019, as part of the launch of the Global Standard for Volunteering for Development.

Forum Basic Measurement Data Survey Report 2019

The first of a series of annual reports measuring the collective contribution of volunteering for development.

E-TICK : Online Course on Ethical Communication

Comhlámh have launched E-TICK, a new 4-part online course on Ethical Communication.

Rapid Research: Youth Networks : Response to COVID-19

This report shares findings from a rapid research aimed at looking at how VSO youth networks are responding to COVID-19 across three countries: Kenya, the Philippines and Sierra Leone.

IVCO 2020 Paper : Perspectives on COVID-19 - The experience of volunteers and volunteering involving organisations in the 2020 Pandemic INTERIM REPORT

This study reports on the results of two surveys of which aimed to explore the experiences of Volunteering Involving Organisations (VIOs) and volunteers with seven International Volunteering and Co-operation Organisations (IVCOs).

Forum Research Report – COVID-19 and the Future of Volunteering for Development : Findings from a study conducted for the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum)

In mid-2020, Forum launched an ambitious research project to inform the future of volunteering for development post-COVID.

Forum Survey Report – COVID-19 and the Future of Volunteering for Development : Volunteers and volunteer involving organisations surveyed for the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum)

This study reports on the results of two surveys that aimed to explore the experiences of volunteer involving organisations and volunteers with seven international volunteering and cooperation organisations.

Learning from the Standards Self-Assessment Pilot- Full Report

The Global Standard for Volunteering for Development was developed in 2018–19, through a global consultation process involving several hundred stakeholders from across the Volunteering for Development sector.

Learning from the Standards Self-Assessement Pilot- Summary Report

The Global Standard for Volunteering for Development was developed in 2018–19, through a global consultation process across the Volunteering for Development sector.

Leçons tirées du projet pilote d’auto-évaluation de la norme – résumé du rapport

La norme internationale du volontariat pour le développement a été développée en 2018-19 grâce à un processus de consultation de l’ensemble du secteur du volontariat pour le développement.

What Contribution Is International Exchange and Solidarity Volunteering Making to the 2030 Agenda? : Experimental Study – Focus on SDG 4

As part of a universal call to action to eliminate poverty, protect the planet, and improve the daily lives of people around the world, the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by the Member States of the United Nations in September 2015.

What Contribution Is International Exchange and Solidarity Volunteering Making to the 2030 Agenda? : Experimental Study – Focus on SDG 4 Summary Report

The purpose of this summary report is to present the main findings of the study on the contribution of International Exchange and Solidarity Volunteering (IESV) to the 2030 Agenda.

Infographic of Study: How Does French International Volunteering Contribute to the 2030 Agenda : Focus on SDG 4/Madagascar

This infographic presents the findings of France Volontaire’s study on the contribution of International Exchange and Solidarity Volunteering (IESV) to the 2030 Agenda.

Temporary Workplace Integration : Norec Report Volume 2 Issue 1

This report examines workplace integration and specifically the integration of foreign temporary workers into Norwegian workplaces.

44 Questions about Inclusive Volunteering for Global Equality : IVCO 2021 Introductory Paper

This Introductory Paper for IVCO 2021 introduces the conference theme – Inclusive Volunteering for Global Equality, and sub-themes – Decolonisation, Digitalisation, and Directionality.

Inclusive Volunteering for Global Equality – Linking Decolonisation and Diversity : IVCO 2021 Framing Paper

This framing paper for IVCO 2021 connects debates around decolonising aid and development with discussions on diversity and inclusion in Volunteering for Development (V4D) programmes.

To Hell with Good Intentions : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This piece by Helge Espe of Norec is a contemporary commentary on the famous address by Monsignor Ivan Illich to the Conference on InterAmerican Student Projects in Cuernavaca, Mexico, in 1968.

The Challenges and Opportunities of Inclusive Online Volunteering : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This piece by Elaine Sly, a volunteer with CBM Ireland’s project VIVID: Technical Assistance in Humanitarian Response, Ensuring Valuable Volunteering and Inclusion of persons with Disabilities.

Hierarchies of Place & Knowledge in Volunteering for Development : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This piece by Alice Chadwick El-Ali of the University of Bath highlights the importance of volunteering, and volunteers, at the local and national levels, and calls for them to be better recognised and resourced.

Inequalities & Imbalances in Research on Volunteering for Development : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This piece by Dr Chris Millora of the University of East Anglia addresses our limited research-based understanding of volunteering in the ‘Global South’ and challenges dominant, ‘Global North’-based understandings of volunteering.

Digitalisation, Diversity & Inclusion in Volunteering for Development : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This piece by Helene Perold and Benjamin Haas highlights some aspects of how digitalisation in volunteering for development has impacted on inclusive volunteering as a pathway to other forms of citizenship and peace building.

Improving Organisational Programming, Culture & Practice : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This paper by Claire Bennett of AltoLearn sets out a pathway for international volunteering organisations to address structural, global issues of power dynamics, attitudes and systems.

Reciprocity & the Sharing of Knowledge as a Gift : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This think piece by Jan Olav Baarøy, Director General of the Norwegian Agency for Exchange Cooperation (Norec) looks at the demands that organisations in the Global North make of their partners in the Global South, using the metaphor of a gift that can only be kept if used properly.

“A Poor Man Cannot Volunteer” : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

Researchers from the Refugee Youth Volunteering Uganda Project (RYVU) present their findings on the diverse and sometimes contradictory meanings and understandings that the term ‘volunteer’ holds in Uganda, and the knock-on effect that these diverse understandings have on how organisations and policy-makers facilitate volunteering.

COVID-19, Inequality & Volunteering for Development – Considering a Capability Approach : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

In this piece Dr Alok Rath, Global Head of Knowledge, Evidence & Learning at VSO, considers the unequal way in which the COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted economic, social and human impact in different parts of the world.

Decolonising Thinking & Practice of Volunteering for Development : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This piece by Bianca Fadel of Northumbria University challenges academics and practitioners to reconsider our notions of volunteering and development, and our assumptions about the ways volunteering offers a pathway to development.

What is Decolonisation Asking of Us? : IVCO 2021 Think Piece

This paper by Sive Bresnihan, Training & Education Officer with Comhlámh asks how the field of volunteering for development – which typically enjoys and asserts an aid of neutrality and benevolence – might meet growing calls for decolonisation.

2022 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report : Building Equal and Inclusive Societies

Volunteerism is a powerful force, and an important part of the fabric of society.

Longitudinal Study of Australian Volunteers (2019-21) : April 2022

The Longitudinal Study of Australian Volunteers (LSAV) is a research project that aims to explicate whether, why and how participating in the Australian Volunteers Program (the program) influences volunteers personally and professionally in relation to four outcome areas: (i) civic participation, engagement and literacy, (ii) global literacy and connections, (iii) career progression and professional capabilities, and (iv) personal circumstances and capabilities.

IVCO 2022 Framing Paper: A New Dawn: Strategic Pathways for the Future of Volunteering in Development : IVCO 2022 Framing Paper

A New Dawn: Strategic Pathways for the Future of Volunteering in Development is a framing paper for the IVCO 2022 Conference.

Report for Forum Members: A New Dawn: Strategic Pathways for the Future of Volunteering in Development : Report for Forum Members

A New Dawn: Strategic Pathways for the Future of Volunteering in Development is a report for Forum member organisations based Forum’s Collective Strategy Process.

Rethinking the Idea of Prosperity (As Flourishing) : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

This IVCO 2022 think piece by Dr.

The Key Ingredients in the Peace Corps Recipe for Success : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

The world is experiencing a period of extraordinary change, and organisations are transforming themselves to adapt to an emerging operating environment.

Volunteering By and For Migrants, Refugees and Asylum Seekers : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

This think piece by Andrée Ménard, WUSC’s Durable Solutions for Refugees Specialist, explores the critical role that the Volunteering for Development sector can and must play in an era of rapidly increasing numbers of forced displacements of people.

We Need to Talk – Hosting Conversations on Climate Change and Unsustainability : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

This piece by Chris O’Connell and Sive Bresnihan of Comhlámh draws on conversations their organisation is having on the idea of ‘ecological sustainability’ as a core organisational value.

Time of Crisis: Leadership for Volunteering and Community Resilience : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

This piece by Nichole Cirillo and Wendy Osborne draws on IAVE’s Leadership for Volunteering: The COVID-19 Experience research report, which looks at the impact that the pandemic had on the strategic role of leadership for volunteering organisations in advocacy, development, and volunteer mobilisation.

Partnership – Just Another Buzzword? : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

This think piece by Helge Espe of Norec draws on the research report Partnership – Just another Buzzword?

Volunteering for Development and Responding to Climate Change : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

Following up on the authors’ IVCO 2022 paper Volunteering for Climate Action, this think piece asks whether that paper’s core message – an urgent need for climate action – has been heard and actioned by Forum members.

Le volontariat sous le prisme de l’intersectionnalité pour lutter contre les inégalités  : Document Thématique IVCO 2022

Cet article d’Ingrid Adovi et Olga Houde de Programme de coopération volontaire Compétences, Leadership, Éducation (Programme CLÉ), raite des avantages de réunir des volontaires (CV) d’origines diverses dans une perspective intersectionnelle, en particulier pour les mandats stratégiques tels que l’égalité et l’inclusion des genres (IEG).

Southern Expertise in Volunteering for Development : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

This think piece identifies a gap between rhetoric and reality on decolonisation and localisation, and asks what IVCOs can do to centre Southern expertise and re-imagine the connection between volunteering and development to deliver transformational change.

Blended Volunteering – A Decolonised Volunteering for Development Approach to achieve SDGs : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

Drawing on research on blended approaches by VSO and Northumbria University, this think piece by Rebecca Pursell-Gotz and Alok Rath of VSO argues that the value of international volunteers is greatest when programmes recognise the value of local models through blended models of volunteering.

International Voluntary Service Praxis: A vehicle Reinforcing Colonial Legacies? : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

Placing international voluntary service in the context of travel by missionaries, explorers and colonisers, this think piece by Ratherford Mwaruta of the Zimbabwe Workcamps Association asserts that international volunteering echoes the relationships and power dynamics of coloniser and colonised while failing to address the root causes of poverty and inequality.

Ọmọlúwàbí – Rethinking Volunteering Through the Lens of African Communalism : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

This piece by Oluwafunmilayo Taiwo, a BeyGOOD x Global Citizen Fellow, explains that volunteering is embedded within the traditional communalism of many African cultures, including the ọmọlúwàbí, or public morality,  philosophy of the Yoruba people.

In Time, an Egg will Walk on its Feet! The Experience of Ethiopia in Building National Voluntary Infrastructure : IVCO 2022 Think Piece

Government and civil society in Ethiopia have made great strides in recent years in building infrastructure for national voluntary service.

VSO Ireland Barncat report on short term volunteering

Is the climate right for VSO Ireland to actively recruit experienced professionals for short-term placements overseas, and which models of short-term volunteering will ensure the greatest impact for the communities VSO works in?

On the design of volunteer programmes to facilitate the entry and re-entry of young people into work

This paper, published jointly by the International Labour Organization and the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme, focuses on identifying the main features of volunteer programmes and, more generally, the types of volunteer programmes or work that are likely to be effective in promoting the integration and re-integration of young people into decent employment.

A New Dawn for Volunteering in Development : Collected Research and Think Pieces for IVCO 2022

This collection brings together the research that was prepared by Forum in advance of the IVCO 2022 conference on the theme ‘A New Dawn for Volunteering in Development’.

Understanding Inequalities in Volunteering Research and Evidence

This paper is based on a study commissioned by the Global Volunteering Forum with two objectives: to deepen Forum members’ collective understanding of inequalities in volunteering research, their root causes and how they are manifested; and to use this improved understanding to propose concrete ways in which a range of actors in the volunteering research space can address these inequalities.

IVCO 2023 Challenge Paper: A New Generation of Volunteers as Changemakers

Launched in partnership with IAVE, the IVCO 2023 Challenge Paper, available in English, French and Spanish, was written by Dr.

Challenge Paper – A Call to Action for the Future of Volunteering

This Challenge paper was commissioned by four global organisations active in the volunteering space: the International Forum for Volunteering in Development (Forum), the International Association of Volunteer Effort (IAVE), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and UNICEF Generation Unlimited, all of whom are committed to hosting a series of meaningful conversations about a future global agenda for volunteering in advance of the United Nations 2026 International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026).

IVCO 2024 Background Paper: Building and Sustaining Connections for Change: Volunteering for Solidarity

The Background Paper ‘Building and Sustaining Connections for Change: Volunteering for Solidarity’ sets the scene for the 2024 International Volunteer Cooperation Organisations Conference (IVCO 2024).