Doc. 8645
4 February 2000

Improving the social status and role of volunteers as a contribution by the Assembly to the International Year of Volunteers 2001

Motion for a recommendation

presented by Mrs Pulgar and others

This motion has not been discussed in the Assembly and commits only

the members who have signed it

1.       The United Nations General Assembly has designated 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers to enhance the recognition, promotion, facilitation and networking of volunteer action worldwide. The Assembly, via its Committee on Social, Health and Family Affairs, like the European Union, ought to take an active part in this initiative, reflecting its long-standing support of voluntary organisations and volunteer service.

2.       Volunteers have come to make qualitatively and quantitatively a fundamental contribution to the progress and welfare of countries and to the strengthening of civil societies everywhere. Today, given the adverse impact of global problems, volunteers are needed more than ever before to help tackle challenges in particular in the social, humanitarian and peace-building fields. But while the contribution of volunteers is vast, their work – and their staff – often lacks the deserved recognition and the necessary social and financial support.

3.       The Council of Europe has long recognised the importance of voluntary organisations and their contribution to the achievement of the aims and principles of its Statute. In the context of this UN International Year, the Assembly should re-open a public discussion regarding the vital contribution volunteers make to social and economic development and regarding strategies, in particular in the social field, to support volunteer service. Such a debate is of special significance in the context of the newly democratic societies.

4.       The Assembly therefore recommends, among other measures, that the Committee of Ministers

i.       review existing instruments of support for the voluntary sector and invite member states to develop ideas and proposals for enhancing such support;

ii. in close consultation with the voluntary sector, define and prepare an energetic programme aimed at enabling the realisation of the International Year of Volunteers' objectives in each country;

iii. closely involve the Council of Europe in the International Year of Volunteers, through contributions to initiatives fostering volunteering.

Signed : 1

Pulgar, Spain, EPP/CD

Alis Font, Andorra, NR

de Puig, Spain, SOC

Knight, United Kingdom, EDG

Laakso, Finland, UEL

Lupu, Romania, EPP/CD

Martinez Casan, Spain, EPP/CD

Mattei, France, LDR

Raskinis, Lithuania, EPP/CD

Sehnalova, Czech Republic, SOC

Squarcialupi, Italy, SOC

Toshev, Bulgaria, EPP/CD

Uriarte, Spain, EPP/CD

Vis, United Kingdom, SOC

1        SOC: Socialist Group