Villa Hammerschmidt. Photo: Florian Keil

The United Nations in Bonn joined the Federal President’s Bürgerfest at Villa Hammerschmidt on 4–5 September, where this year’s celebration placed a special focus on voluntary engagement. Around 2,000 volunteers from across Germany were invited in recognition of their contributions to society. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier highlighted the importance of their commitment for social cohesion and democracy.

For UN Bonn, the occasion had particular significance: 2026 is the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to recognize and strengthen volunteerism as a driver of the Sustainable Development Goals. UN Volunteers (UNV), together with other Bonn-based UN entities, engaged with visitors and highlighted how volunteering connects local action with global efforts for sustainable development.