U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon saluted on Wednesday the many millions of volunteers for their contribution around the world.
In his message marking the International Volunteer Day, which is observed annually on Dec. 5, Ban said volunteers play an indispensable role in the efforts to help tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges.
"Yet, the remarkable contribution of voluntary action around the world is not sufficiently recognized," he noted.
Ban called volunteerism a feature of all cultures and societies, and a fundamental source of community strength, resilience, solidarity and social cohesion.
"It can help effect positive social change by fostering inclusive societies that respect diversity, equality and the participation of all," he said.
The U.N. chief called for recognition of the power of volunteerism to promote peace and development worldwide, while paying tribute to the "many millions of citizens all over the world who, every day -- in ways small and large -- volunteer their time, ingenuity, solidarity and creativity to help build a better, more sustainable future."
Source: Xinhua
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