The breakout sessions on Day 1 will focus on who ‘we’ are as diverse actors in the volunteering sector, understanding the nature of crises and acknowledging their depth and what they mean to us.  The sessions will also aim to connect the local to the global by inviting delegates to talk about the challenges they face at different levels and to brainstorm together on current and potential coping strategies.

In this How-to Workshop, speakers will focus on strengthening delegates' technical knowledge and building their capacity in evidence gathering, practical project design and management, and impact pathways, focusing on the needs and challenges of the volunteering and development sector.

Moderator: Nancy Lafrance (CECI)

• Speakers: Dervla King and Fiachra Brennan (Comhlámh)
• Title: “Values, collaborative working, and peer support: Exploring Comhlámh’s Code of Good Practice for Volunteer Sending Agencies”

For twenty years, Comhlámh’s Code of Good Practice has shaped values-led international volunteering from Ireland. The current edition of the Code has been developed during a time of vast change and upheaval across the world. Against this backdrop code members reaffirmed a commitment to the values of Solidarity, Social Justice, Ecological Sustainability, Respect, and Integrity. This workshop will explore how Comhlámh has worked to support the conditions for organisations to go on a journey of reflection and change which recognises the interconnectedness and interdependence of people and planet. The session will include an interactive discussion on Comhlámh’s emerging assessment tool, which seeks to strengthen practice within living, learning organisations.

• Speakers: Lucie Morillon (France Volontaires) and Edem Agode (National Agency for Volunteerism in Togo)
• Title: “Harnessing the impact of reciprocity in volunteering: Findings and recommendations to enhance international cooperation models”

This workshop presentation will present findings from a recent study on reciprocity in volunteering, highlighting its positive impact on volunteers' skills and future engagement. However, the study also identifies challenges that remain, such as visa policies, medical coverage, and the prevention of brain drain. Key recommendations include simplifying administrative procedures, strengthening the capacities of host organisations, improving reintegration support, and broadening the application of reciprocity principles. The workshop will explore new strategies for partnership and cooperation, focusing on the commitment of Togo and France to fostering more balanced and reciprocal relations. Participants will gain insights into reciprocity and cross mobilities as practised by French and Togolese organisations, critically examine the traditional focus of aid, and understand the transformative nature of reciprocity.

*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.