According to international studies, around 15% of the global population regularly engages in volunteering. In Latvia, this figure is significantly lower – approximately 6–7%. At the same time, data from non-governmental organizations indicate that more than 250,000 people take part in volunteering each year, contributing a total of around 2.5 million hours. The exact level of participation in volunteering cannot be fully measured due to the diverse forms of engagement and approaches to data collection.
This is stated in the informative report “Volunteering in Latvia”, which was considered and endorsed by the Cabinet of Ministers on June 2nd.
The Minister of Welfare Reinis Uzulnieks emphasized that: “We often see the finish lines of the Riga Marathon, the concerts of the Song and Dance Festival, the emotions of basketball championships, or the assistance provided by Samaritans – yet behind all of these stand hundreds and thousands of volunteers. Their contribution often remains behind the scenes, but without them, many significant events and initiatives simply could not take place. Volunteering is an essential resource for national development, which we have not yet fully recognized or utilized. Therefore, we have identified specific directions for action to create a modern support system for volunteering, strengthen the non-governmental sector, and promote public participation. Our task is to create the conditions for volunteering to become a foundational element of civic engagement and a meaningful contribution to Latvia’s growth and public well-being.”
The report also outlines the key barriers preventing the sector from reaching its full potential. These include insufficient policy integration, fragmented data collection, and incomplete digital infrastructure. Other significant impediments include low public awareness of volunteering opportunities, insufficient recognition of skills acquired through volunteering, and the limited capacity of non-governmental organizations to attract and effectively coordinate volunteers.
To address these challenges, six key lines of action have been defined to strengthen the volunteering sector. First, it is planned to better embed volunteering policy within national planning documents. Second, a unified and regular system for data collection and analysis will be established to assess more accurately the scope and impact of volunteering. Third, a Volunteering Information Platform will be developed, where organizers and volunteers can meet in one place and interact.
In addition, frameworks will be developed to recognize competencies gained through volunteering, promoting their value in the labour market. Also, initiatives focused on public awareness and engagement will be implemented to boost the recognition and reputation of volunteer work. Finally, solutions will be developed to strengthen the capacity of non-governmental organizations, enabling them to attract volunteers more effectively and encourage public participation in addressing socially important matters.
The United Nations has proclaimed 2026 the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, , recognizing volunteerism as an important force for sustainable development. Latvia has also decided to join this initiative, planning a range of activities across the country – including an information campaign, educational and awareness-raising events, as well as activities for the recognition of volunteers.