ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT SALUTES THOSE WHO GIVE TIME, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS TO HELP OTHERS, IN INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEERS DAY MESSAGE
Press Release
GA/SM/23
OBV/31
ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT SALUTES THOSE WHO GIVE TIME, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS TO HELP OTHERS, IN INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEERS DAY MESSAGE
19971205 Following is the text of a message by General Assembly President Hennadiy Udovenko (Ukraine), on the occasion of International Volunteers Day, 5 December:In a world where self-interest often becomes a major motivating factor for human actions, examples of selfless giving take on particular significance.
It is, therefore, only fitting that the busy calendar of international observances includes a special day to salute the work of all those who volunteer their own time, knowledge and skills to help others.
In deciding, back in 1985, to observe 5 December as International Volunteers Day, the General Assembly recognized the desirability of stimulating the work of all volunteers, both in the field and in different kinds of organizations -- from multilateral to non-governmental -- and of giving encouragement to those volunteers, many of whom contribute their services at considerable personal sacrifice.
One can indeed take inspiration from the activities of thousands of United Nations volunteers who are helping the Organization to build peace, advance democracy and human rights, alleviate suffering and promote sustainable development. Coming from over 100 countries and a variety of educational, cultural and professional backgrounds, these men and women give us convincing proof that every individual effort counts in the noble cause of improving people's lives.
On the occasion of this Day, I would like to convey to all volunteers my sincere gratitude for the important job they are doing and wish them many new successes in their undertakings.
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