The Third National Congress of the China Volunteer Service Federation (CVSF) convened in Beijing on November 27-28, marking a pivotal milestone in China’s volunteer service development. Founded in December 2013, CVSF has evolved from a coordinating body into a national hub driving the institutionalization and normalization of volunteerism, bridging the gap between spontaneous community efforts and systematic national initiatives over its first two terms (2013-2025).
The congress comes at a significant juncture, following the one-year anniversary of the landmark central policy Opinions on Improving the Volunteer Service System for the New Era (April 2024). It builds on remarkable achievements: China now boasts over 230 million registered volunteers and more than 1.3 million volunteer organizations, with services spanning rural revitalization, ecological protection, disaster response, education support, and social governance. Flagship programs like the West China Program and emergency volunteer teams have become symbols of the “dedication, friendship, mutual assistance, and progress” spirit, integrating volunteerism into core socialist values.
Looking ahead, the congress outlined three strategic priorities: deepening service alignment with national strategies, addressing people’s livelihood needs (including elderly care, child support, and disaster relief), and enhancing social governance through community mutual aid and dispute mediation. CVSF will strengthen its governance structure, establish a national emergency volunteer database, and promote standardized training and insurance coverage. The agenda also emphasizes synergy with Party committees and governments at all levels to advance the legislative process of the Volunteer Service Law, solidifying institutional guarantees for high-quality development.
