VOLUNTEERING: ANALYSIS OF THE REGULATORY AND LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK

Abstract

Volunteering as a social phenomenon has been widely discussed by scientists and specialists over the past few years. International documents proclaim the equality of citizens’ rights to participate in volunteer activities, and also emphasize the need to strengthen the volunteer movement in all countries of the world. However, there are difficulties in a single comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon of “volunteering”. The article analyzes the activities of international organizations regulating volunteer work. The analysis of modern legislation after the adoption of amendments to the Constitution of the Russian Federation is carried out, and the possible consequences for the development of the social institution of “volunteering” in modern society are described.
 Purpose. The aim of the study is to analyze the modern comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon of “volunteering”, the activities of international organizations in the development of volunteering and modern Russian legislation on volunteering.
 Methodology. The main research method was the content analysis of Russian and foreign literature on volunteering and regulatory documents (official websites of the UN, UNDP, federal authorities). To achieve the goal of the study, the methodology of system analysis was used.
 Results. The results of the work showed that volunteering is understood as a form of social service, carried out according to the free will of citizens, aimed at the disinterested provision of socially significant services at the local, national or international levels, contributing to personal growth and development of citizens (volunteers) performing this activity. The role of International Organizations is important in consolidating efforts in promoting volunteering. National governments and public institutions should work closely with voluntary organizations in setting common priorities for the development of the world. The state has recognized the importance of volunteering in its legal acts. Effective implementation of the socio-economic development of Russia is possible in partnership with civil institutions, including volunteers. Modern social challenges (pandemic COVID-19, fires, floods, etc.) reinforce and emphasize the importance of volunteering.
 Practical implications. The results of the study can be applied in the field of social and youth policy.