Call for researchers: Insight Paper for IVCO 2026 – Volunteering beyond 2030

Forum, in partnership with France Volontaires, is inviting expressions of interest from researchers and consultants to develop an Insight Paper for IVCO2026, to be held in Paris from 19 to 23 October 2026.

Titled ‘Volunteering for Sustainable Futures: Evidence and Pathways Beyond 2030′ the paper will serve as the key framing document for the conference.

As the international community approaches the end of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the paper will assess the evidence of volunteering’s contribution to the SDGs and explore how volunteering can adapt, innovate and remain a transformative force within a post-2030 global development framework.

Focus of the paper

The Insight Paper will:

Analyse how volunteering, in all its forms, contributes to SDG achievement
Examine how volunteering’s impact can be better measured and evidenced
Explore engagement and inclusion, including the role of young people
Consider the role of volunteering in partnerships (SDG 17)
Identify pathways for strengthening volunteering’s recognition and impact beyond 2030

The paper will provide a shared evidence base to guide discussion throughout IVCO 2026, and beyond.

Who should apply

Forum welcomes expressions of interest from individual consultants or research teams with strong knowledge of volunteering in development, experience in analytical and policy-oriented research, and solid qualitative and/or mixed-methods expertise.

In line with Forum and France Volontaires’ commitment to inclusivity and global representation, applications from consultants and research teams based in the Global South are strongly encouraged.

Timeline and application

Deadline for applications: 26 January 2026
Preliminary findings presented: IVCO Working Group Meeting – March 2026
Final paper completed by: End of May 2026

To apply, please submit an expression of interest (maximum two pages) outlining relevant experience and a proposed approach (including indicative timetable and budget), along with CV(s).

You can find full Terms of Reference here – IVCO-2026-Insight-Paper-Terms-of-Reference

Applications should be addressed to James O’Brien – jobrien@forum-ids.org