Centre for Civic Education (CCE), on the occasion of 5 December – International Volunteer Day, extends its appreciation to all volunteers who, through their time and engagement, contribute to building a more solidary, responsible, and democratic society.
International Volunteer Day reminds us that volunteering is not merely occasional assistance, but a process of learning, personal development, and community strengthening. Through volunteer engagement, citizens acquire skills, develop communication and organisational abilities, learn to identify and address social issues, and build a sense of personal responsibility and active citizenship, which also has long-term value in their professional lives.
The CCE advocates for the adoption of a new Law on Volunteering to ensure volunteers receive adequate support and incentives. Their contribution must be clearly recognised, appreciated, and systematically rewarded, while activism and volunteerism should be strongly promoted at the national level. Although the intention of lawmakers to recognise certain forms of volunteering as work experience is positive, the existing solutions are neither sufficiently clear nor practical. Precise regulation, clear standards, and simple mechanisms for recording competencies are needed, accompanied by transparent documentation and certification relevant to both volunteers and employers.
At the same time, volunteering has a clear purpose – solidarity and contribution to the community. It cannot and must not replace employment, internships, or professional engagement, which must be paid and regulated by labour legislation. The boundary between volunteer engagement and work must be clear to prevent misuse and protect especially young and vulnerable groups from unpaid or disguised labour.
This approach is aligned with European standards and practices that safeguard volunteers and the integrity of the concept of volunteering. The CCE will continue to advocate for systemic, clear, and fair solutions in the field of volunteerism that simultaneously contribute to the professional development of individuals and the fulfilment of the public interest.
The UN General Assembly proclaimed 5 December as International Volunteer Day on 17 December 1985, recalling the establishment of the UN Volunteers Programme in 1970.
Nikola Đurašević, Programme Associate