For Robert Leigh, Senior Policy Specialist, GLOW 2005 is the right opportunity for UNV to re-commit ourselves to help achieve the MDGs by creating the environment in which volunteerism can flourish. The first step towards this goal, he says, is to reach a common understanding and acceptance of UNV’s core theme, V4D, and how it impacts our work. Here are some excerpts from an interview with Robert:

Q: Why is GLOW important for UNV at this point of time?

A: We live in rapidly changing times and an organization that wishes to remain relevant must, periodically, step back to reflect on where it is coming from, where it is today, and where it is heading…The timing of the GLOW is especially critical for the UNV programme. As the Administrator has emphasized, 2005 is a key moment for the world as leaders of the UN Member States come together in four months to consider progress towards achieving the MDGs and, we hope, recommit themselves to meeting them…. Also, later this year the Member States will be discussing at the General Assembly the progress made since IYV, and what still needs to be done to ensure that volunteerism plays its full role in addressing the development challenges, including the role of UNV. This is a perfect moment for us to consider collectively ways to ensure that UNV plays out its full potential in helping to meet the aspirations of the Millennium Declaration.

Q: So, towards this goal, what’s it that you’d like us to achieve in the GLOW week?

A: The GLOW has a number of objectives around encouraging dialogue, building commitment, and promoting learning. By the end of the GLOW I would like to see the entire UNV “team” come away with a common understanding and acceptance of UNV’s core theme - Volunteering for Development – and its implications for the work of every one of us.

Q: From an organizational point of view, how is GLOW 2005 different from the workshop in 1999?

A: The last workshop took place in a different century and involved a very different UNV. The changes just a few years have wrought on UNV are impressive. In 1999 the UNV programme was little more than the sum of its UN Volunteers. Today, UNV is fast becoming a respected and much consulted UN body with normative functions related to advocating for, and promoting volunteerism, in addition to its important traditional function of placement of UN Volunteers. Unlike in 1999, we now have the mandate, the knowledge, the partnerships, and the MDG context to move ahead and we should take full advantage of the extraordinary opportunities to help - almost everywhere - build the environment within which volunteerism can flourish.

Q: What would be your three recommendations for colleagues coming to GLOW?

A: First, come with an open mind and be ready to actively share your knowledge and experience with others. Everybody has something to contribute to building the UNV of the future. “Moving forward together” is after all the GLOW’s slogan. Second, be tolerant of others and understand that every culture has its own way of expressing itself. Third, of course, have lots of fun!

Q: And, any advice for the organizers of GLOW?

A: Many subjects will be dealt with during the meeting. My advice would be to ensure that there is a common thread running through the entire week and that this be V4D - the central goal of UNV’s mission and the reason for our existence.

Q: Thank you for your valuable advice. Is there anything else that you’d like to convey to colleagues about GLOW?

Yes - let’s aim to come away from the GLOW with renewed hope and enthusiasm for the future! And with an appreciation of how fortunate we all are to be part of an organization with a justifiably proud record of service to peace and development.