Sana’a: The Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor has implemented significant measures to promote volunteer work as a crucial element in societal development and resilience, especially in light of the ongoing challenges faced by the nation for the past decade. These initiatives are part of the Government of Change and Construction’s program, which emphasizes community support across various sectors and regions.
According to Yemen News Agency, the Ministry’s efforts aim to foster a culture of volunteerism that is essential for societal and national progress. The measures include the adoption of working papers from academics and specialists at the Fourth Conference on Volunteering and Voluntary Work. This conference, organized in collaboration with several institutions, sought to formalize and publicize the achievements and values of volunteer work.
A notable contribution to the conference was a paper by Dr. Hasiba Shenif, Chairperson of the Human Rights, Public Liberties, and Civil Society Committee in the Shura Council. Dr. Shenif underscored volunteering as a religious and societal duty that enhances individual and collective responsibility. She outlined the benefits of volunteerism, such as reducing societal issues, stimulating development, and fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Dr. Shenaif also highlighted the evolution of volunteer work from individual efforts to organized collective actions, facilitated by modern associations and institutions. She identified three key functions of volunteerism: complementing government services, providing new services that are beyond governmental reach, and performing services not offered by the state.
The paper presented various benefits of volunteer work, including skill development, self-esteem enhancement, and societal loyalty. It also emphasized the societal benefits, such as economic contributions, social solidarity, and reduced unemployment rates.
However, Dr. Shanif noted obstacles hindering volunteerism, such as the lack of regulatory frameworks and clear goals for charitable organizations. She advocated for volunteers to embrace responsibility and commitment to overcome these challenges.
The paper concluded with recommendations for enhancing volunteerism, including the role of religious leaders, media, and educational institutions in raising awareness. It called for the development of digital infrastructure to facilitate volunteer activities and the creation of electronic platforms to connect volunteers with opportunities.