Building on the case made in chapter 1, this chapter provides a critical overview of the state-of-the-art in volunteer measurement, tracing how approaches have evolved from their origins in statistical and economic terms to the holistic, multi-method frameworks increasingly used today. Examples illustrate how measurement objectives and practices have changed, particularly since the 2000s, alongside a growing understanding of volunteering as a force with economic and social value . From this new holistic perspective, measurement has become key to demonstrating that voluntary action generates public value and deserves recognition from citizens and governments. As established in chapter 1, how volunteering is measured directly affects how it is valued. This chapter delves into the tools themselves, showing how different approaches can shape narratives and influence decisions. While standardized indicators are essential for comparability – one of the goals addressed by the GIVE fram...
Alessandra Vellucci, Director of the United Nations Information Service in Geneva , reminded everyone that today was International Volunteer Day. The Secretary-General had issued a message emphasizing how volunteering offered a powerful way to forge connections and foster our shared humanity , and paid gratitude to the more than 14,000 people who had served through the United Nations Volunteers program. This week also marked the launch of the International Volunteer Year 2026 . The Secretary-General is urging everyone, everywhere to volunteer for the cause that mattered to them in these times of crisis and uncertainty. Tommaso Della Longa for the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) , said International Volunteer Day was a moment to honour the more than 17 million Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers who made the world a safer place every day . This year the theme was " Local, Everywhere ", highlighting the unique network volunteers coming from the community t...
.The 2026 SWVR seeks to advance debates around the world on volunteer measurement by tackling the persistent evidence gaps that limit our understanding of the impacts of volunteering and the experiences of many volunteers . In line with previous SWVR cycles, this edition represents a step change, focusing on volunteer measurement, reflecting how conceptual and methodological priorities have evolved over time. Investments in humanitarian and development work are increasingly results-driven in order to achieve sustainable outcomes. Evidence of the impact of volunteerism is, therefore, essential to shape responsive policies.
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