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 April, 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.
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 sets 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.
This conference provides 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. Now is the time to explore new approaches and reinforce the power of collective action.
IVCO 2025 is hosted by Forum and CCC, with support from AVI, France Volontaires and VSO Cambodia.
Learn more and register at www.ivcoforum.org