Since the International Year of Volunteers (IYV) in 2001, governments, the United Nations system, civil society partners and other stakeholders have increasingly recognized that volunteerism makes significant contributions to peace and development.

UN Volunteers commissioned this global research study – carried out by ICNL and ECNL – to consider trends and lessons in the development of supportive volunteerism policies and legislation. An overall review was conducted in seven regions, complemented by country-specific case studies in each region. The study analyzes considerations in drafting and implementing volunteerism laws and policies, and highlights the need to tailor them to specific local, national and regional contexts.