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Annan Opens International Year of Volunteers 2001
United Nations Secretary- General Kofi Annan opened the International Year of Volunteers 2001 on Tuesday to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of volunteering worldwide.
In his opening address at the United Nations headquarters, Annan said that societies need to recognize and promote volunteerism as valuable activity. "They must facilitate the work of volunteers and encourage volunteer action at home and abroad," said Annan.
He added that "by calling upon volunteers and building partnerships with civil society, governments can help increase the efficiency of public services and ensure that they reach more people."
In 1997, the UN General Assembly declared 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers to recognize and honor the enormous contributions of millions of volunteers all over the world and designated the UN Volunteers as the Year's focal point.
Following the opening ceremony, an exhibit in this regard will be opened at the U.N. headquarters this afternoon and will be on display until February 28. The official launch of the Year will take place on December 5, the International Volunteer Day, with national events all over the world.
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