As the world becomes increasingly more connected and integrated due to globalization, technology and increased mobility, is there also a need to change how we look at volunteerism in the 21st century?
Definitely yes, according to Kevin Quigley, Peace Corps director in Thailand, who explained that volunteerism and how it impacts people’s lives — internally and externally — should ride with the changing tides of international affairs and development.
“We human beings learn best by doing. All these programs are based on reciprocity along with the goal of trying to promote volunteerism. The act of volunteering is meant to be a model for others,” he said during a breakout session at the Asia-Pacific Forum on Youth Volunteerism in Bangkok attended by Devex last week. The event was organized in conjunction with the International Young Leaders Assembly by UNESCO, UNESCAP, the Global Young Leaders Academy and the Global Peace Foundation.
About the author
Lean Alfred Santos@DevexLeanAS
Lean Alfred Santos is a former Devex development reporter focusing on the development community in Asia-Pacific, including major players such as the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. He previously covered Philippine and international business and economic news, sports and politics.
