IVCO 2025

Strengthening Civil Society in Challenging Times

Summary

Jointly hosted by Cooperation Committee for Cambodia (CCC) and Forum, the annual conference for International Volunteering Cooperation Organisations (IVCO) was held in Siem Reap, Cambodia from 14-18 September, 2025. Focusing on the theme: Strengthening Civil Society in Challenging Times, IVCO 2025 was an excellent opportunity for heads of volunteer organisations and delegates from public, private, academic and NGO sectors around the world to network, discuss pertinent issues in volunteering, share innovative approaches, and build strong alliances.

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Set against the stunning backdrop of Cambodia’s historic temples, IVCO 2025 was a vibrant celebration of connection, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. This year’s theme opened the door to critical and timely conversations about the pivotal role volunteers play in strengthening civil society, as well as strategies to counter challenges to a thriving civil society.

As global challenges mount, the role of volunteers in a vibrant civil society is more essential than ever. Shifting funding priorities, policy changes, and a global civil society under threat are changing how volunteers operate and how Forum members support them. While these challenges present obstacles, they also create opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

The theme of IVCO 2025 set the scene for conversations on the vital contribution that volunteers make to strengthening civil society, and how we can support volunteers to succeed in their work while they face more challenging and restrictive environments.

The conference provided a space to reflect on how volunteering is adapting to today’s realities – continuing to strengthen communities, foster dialogue, and contribute to a more open society.

IVCO 2025 was hosted by Forum and CCC, with support from AVI, France Volontaires and VSO Cambodia.

Find out more about IVCO 2025 at www.ivcoforum.org