Amidst global challenges, there is an increased recognition of the need for mutually supportive relationships, at all levels, that recognise the interconnectedness and interdependence of people and planet. In the final breakout sessions during Day 3, we will discuss how to sustain those connections despite myriad challenges. We expect delegates to draw inspiration from recognising that transformative change can happen in different ways.

In this Human Library Session, speakers will focus on will focus on sharing knowledge about working in volunteering and development and responding to crises through storytelling, allowing delegates to gain an in-depth insight into the experiences of others in a conversational and creative format where 'readers' interact with different 'human books'.

Moderator: Fiachra Brennan (Comhlámh)

• Speaker: Und Hattaya Wongsaengpaiboon (VSO)
• Title: “Transforming conflict actors as active agents of peace and community development through volunteerism”

In the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Philippines, volunteers play a crucial role in fostering community resilience, peace, and prosperity amidst a fragile, post-conflict environment. The region faces periodic violence, environmental hazards like typhoons and floods, and security threats from groups such as the Islamic State. Former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camps have become hubs where decommissioned combatants, women, and youth collaborate to lead community-driven initiatives. A diverse group of volunteers—including international, national, community, and returning volunteers—lead efforts to address community vulnerabilities. They focus on climate change adaptation, resilience, and enhancing citizen engagement with local government. These volunteers demonstrate the power of collective action to bring about transformative change in BARMM, bridging decades of conflict and climate challenges that have bred deep mistrust. By fostering solidarity and trust across communities and institutions, volunteers showcase the potential for sustained positive change. Their efforts not only improve local conditions but also contribute to long-term peace and prosperity in a region grappling with complex challenges. This presentation will discuss how collaborative efforts between conflict-affected communities and volunteers have contributed to building solidarity and strengthening social cohesion in Mindanao, Philippines.

• Speakers: Kathleen Boodhai and Padma Rao (Sangini)
• Title: “Volunteerism as a form of 'quiet activism' and care: empowering women from black, global majority and minoritised communities in the Northeast of England”

For over 20 years, Sangini, has been at the heart of empowering women from Black, global majority and minoritised communities using creativity to promote well-being through civic engagement. The creative arts and heritage are central to how we help women explore the crucial themes of identity, migration, feminism, human rights as well as issues of well-being and health; thus, providing a holistic environment for women to actualise their ideas and visions. Threads of volunteering lay in the very fabric of Sangini's ethos and its work. Currently located in South Shields, a post-industrial town in the northeast of England, Sangini's roots lay in the humble conversations around a kitchen table by a group of women about helping each other from social isolation, feeling disengaged and experiencing a loss of identity. Like many Black-led voluntary organisations, the seed capital was not funding, but human spirit and passion to make a difference, dedication to bring a change and hours of volunteer time. Over the years, volunteers have played a crucial role in helping to maintain, strengthen and deepen our services through a variety of skills. Their sense of human connectedness, intrinsic empathy and commitment to women's well-being and equality form the bedrock of our work. The culture of volunteerism, as a form of quiet activism and care, is integral to the women we serve and sectors Sangini operates in.

• Speakers: Jürgen Deile (Cooperation Committee for Cambodia)
• Title: “25 Years of Civil Peace Service: Professional Volunteering for Peace as a Sign of Solidarity”

Jimi Hendrix, the legendary musician, once said: "When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace". Twenty-five years ago, civil society, churches and parliament in Germany established the Civil Peace Service (CPS), which will be the focus of this presentation. The CPS, funded by the German government, strives to build a world in which conflicts are resolved without resorting to violence. Nine peace and development organisations from Germany run the CPS, working primarily with civil society organisations committed to non-violence in conflict. CPS volunteers work under the German Development Workers Act, which provides for a volunteer programme for experienced professionals without the intention of financial gain and for a limited period of time – usually 3-6 years. Volunteers in the CPS programme are trained to provide long-term support to local organisations and people in their efforts to promote dialogue, a strong civil society, human rights and peace for social change. As a result, CPS volunteers can focus on multiple issues ranging from organisational development and drama education to conflict transformation and psychosocial support. There are currently around 380 international CPS volunteers in around 45 countries.

*Four different modalities of breakout sessions have been designed to amplify diverse voices and promote opportunities for delegates to share their experiences in engaging ways during IVCO 2024.
Click here to find out more about what to expect from each type of breakout session.