Volunteerism fosters peace, global prosperity, UN official says

Volunteerism helps build a peaceful society and a prosperous planet for all, said Shalina Miah, Asia-Pacific regional office manager of United Nations Volunteers.

Miah, who is attending the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations, said volunteerism and the desire to help others is a human-centered approach based on solidarity, inclusion, community service, dedication and compassion, and volunteering benefits both individuals and society, as well as the whole world.

"I'm glad to be part of the conference. ... I also want to promote volunteerism and the importance of youth engaging as volunteers to be actors of change for a better world and to contribute to the well-being of people and the planet, and to ensure prosperity," she said in written answers to questions.