The modern volunteer movement is an effective tool of public diplomacy. By taking real action and sharing human stories, volunteers are able to break down political barriers and promote a more accurate understanding of Russia and its values. These topics were discussed on 8 November during the panel discussion "Communicating Values: How Volunteering Shapes Russia's Image in the World" held at the National Centre RUSSIA, as part of the final forum of the International Volunteer Corps marking the 80th anniversary of Victory.
Director of the Information and Press Department and Official Representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Maria Zakharova, emphasized that volunteer initiatives are highly significant even in peacetime.
"[When the world faced a pandemic,] people had a strong desire to help. Something pushed them to help their neighbors. Of course, doctors were the first to respond. Some, without even a respirator or mask, went to work and treated patients, risking their own lives. Others, with no idea what would happen to them, also went out and helped. This is when a true civil society began to emerge. These people understood that they could not remain silent and do nothing. They came to the rescue of those in need,” said Maria Zakharova.
Deputy Head of the Federal Agency for the Commonwealth of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad, and International Humanitarian Cooperation (Rossotrudnichestvo), Dmitry Polikanov, spoke about international and educational programs aimed at promoting Russian values.
"The 'Guardians of History' program has brought together young researchers, providing them with unique access to archive materials and the opportunity to attend serious scientific conferences. We have expanded the age range for the 'New Generation' program significantly - now it covers participants aged 14-40. We collaborate with the World Youth Festival and the Dobro.RF ecosystem, and we carry out volunteer missions abroad - a striking example being the arrival of Russian restorers in Belarus, where our specialists not only shared their knowledge but also exchanged experience with foreign colleagues. So, keep an eye out for updates on our Telegram channel. We would be very glad to see you participate in any of our programs," said Dmitry Polikanov.
The energy and commitment of volunteers have become a key resource in implementing international youth projects. First Deputy Director General of the World Youth Festival Directorate, Artem Fomin, explained how this works in practice.
"In Sirius in 2024, volunteers assisted the guests and organizers, filling the space of our symbolic city of the world's youth with care, warmth, and joy. The same positive energy was felt from the volunteers at the WYF Assembly in Nizhny Novgorod this September. It is worth noting that some members of the WYF movement abroad are also active members of the “Victory Volunteers”. Through these joint initiatives, we are engaging an increasing number of young people in various countries. For instance, in the spring of this year, WYF activists from Europe joined the "We Stand for Cleanliness" campaign. On the eve of the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, they organized cleanup days at memorials and monuments dedicated to the Great Patriotic War in their countries," said Artem Fomin.
Speaking about the international activities of the All-Russian public civic and patriotic movement "Immortal Regiment of Russia," Executive Director of the movement Natalia Shadrina highlighted the growing global influence of the project, which has become a true symbol of Russia’s values.
"This year, we set an absolute record for geographical reach — the 'Immortal Regiment' campaign took place in 120 countries, including NATO member states. Local residents came to see the faces of those who liberated their cities and nations and actively joined the organization of events. Film screenings play a special role, helping to convey the true image of the soldier-liberator. And, most importantly, it is the volunteers who, despite external pressure and threats, continue to promote a historically accurate narrative and preserve the memory of real heroes," said Natalia Shadrina.
The Final Forum of the International Volunteer Corps marking the 80th anniversary of Victory brought together over 1,500 volunteers from 89 regions of Russia and 35 countries at the National Centre RUSSIA. The event was organized by the All-Russian Public Movement "Victory Volunteers" with the support of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh), the Moscow Committee for Public Relations and Youth Policy, Rosmolodezh’s program "More Than Trip", the Presidential Grants Foundation, and other partner organisations.