ICON – Conference on Volunteering, Democracy and Peacebuilding

Peace Volunteering Network successfully organized the national conference “Volunteering, Peacebuilding and Democracy”, bringing together over 170 participants from across the country to explore the role of volunteering in strengthening democratic values and supporting peacebuilding efforts.

The event served as a key platform to present the results of the ICON Project, supported by the European Union, and to open a space for dialogue on how volunteerism can contribute to more resilient, inclusive, and democratic societies.

Purpose and Focus of the Conference

The main aim of the conference was twofold:

• To highlight the positive impact of volunteering on promoting active citizenship, social cohesion, and democratic engagement.

• To share and discuss the outcomes of the ICON Project, including learnings, field experiences, and practical tools developed during project implementation.

Participants had the opportunity to exchange insights, reflect on the challenges and opportunities of volunteer engagement, and explore ways to strengthen cooperation among organizations working in the field.

A Diverse and Engaged Audience

The conference gathered a wide range of stakeholders, including:

• NGOs and community organizations engaged in volunteer-led initiatives

• Municipalities and institutions co-organizing volunteer workcamps

• Media representatives

• Civil service institutions

• Youth workers, project coordinators, activists, and community leaders

The lively discussions and contributions from different sectors reflected a shared interest in promoting volunteerism as a driver of social change.

Project Results and Exchange of Experiences

During the conference, PVN and its partners presented the project’s key achievements, methodologies, and practical outputs, including:

• Tools to strengthen local volunteering structures

• Findings from community-based activities

• Insights on youth engagement and democratic participation

• Recommendations to improve cooperation between civil society and local authorities

Through face-to-face conversations, presentations, and Q&A sessions, participants were able to discuss real experiences from the field, share practices, and explore future collaborations.

A Step Forward for Volunteering and Democracy

The conference reaffirmed the critical role of volunteering in supporting democratic culture, community participation, and peace-oriented initiatives. It also highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between civil society, local governments, and citizens.

Peace Volunteering Network remains committed to strengthening volunteer structures and promoting active citizenship, ensuring that the momentum created by the ICON Project continues to grow.