The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program champions peace and development worldwide by promoting volunteerism. Volunteerism is a powerful force that tackles development challenges, builds trust, and creates opportunities for people to participate. UNV works to recognize volunteers, weave volunteerism into development initiatives, and mobilize a diverse pool of volunteers globally.
If you’re looking to apply for an international UN Volunteer role in 2025, here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and pursuing these impactful opportunities.
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Understanding UNV Opportunities
The UNV program offers various ways to contribute, including onsite volunteering (both international and national) and online volunteering.
- International UN Volunteers: You’ll serve in a country other than your own. As of January 1, 2025, these assignments typically last between 3 and 48 months.
- National UN Volunteers: You’ll serve within your home country. These roles make up approximately 70% of all UNV assignments.
- Online Volunteers: You can contribute to projects remotely from anywhere in the world. These roles usually last up to 12 weeks and require about 20 hours per week. It’s important to note that online volunteers do not receive financial compensation.
To find current UNV assignments, visit the UNV Unified Volunteering Platform (UVP).
Eligibility for International UN Volunteers
While specific requirements vary by assignment, here are the general eligibility criteria for international UN Volunteers:
- Age: As of July 1, 2024, age is no longer a factor for eligibility. All candidates between 18 and 80 years old can apply.
- Education: Most assignments require a higher technical diploma, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree.
- Professional Experience:
- UN Youth Volunteers & University Volunteers: 0-3 years of experience (ages 18-26, although the age limit has been relaxed).
- UN Volunteer Specialists: 3-15 years of experience.
- UN Expert Volunteers: Over 15 years of experience.
- Language Proficiency: You’ll need a good working knowledge of at least one of UNV’s three working languages: English, French, or Spanish.
- Personal Qualities: A strong commitment to volunteerism values, respect for diversity, excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, the ability to work in multicultural environments, and adaptability to challenging conditions are essential. Prior volunteering or work experience in a developing country is often a plus.
Application Process
The application process for UNV roles generally follows these steps:
- Register in the UNV Global Talent Pool: This is the most crucial initial step. Visit the UN Volunteers Unified Volunteering Platform (UVP) at app.unv.org and create a detailed profile. This includes providing your personal information, skills, education, and experience. This process can take around 45 minutes.
- Browse and Apply for Assignments: Once registered, you can explore available assignments on the UVP that match your skills and interests. New opportunities are posted regularly. Keep in mind that some assignments are filled directly from the Global Talent Pool without being publicly advertised.
- Review and Selection: The UNV team will review profiles to match candidates with open positions. If you’re shortlisted, host agencies will contact you for an interview.
- Interviews: Interviews are typically conducted by senior managers and may include competency-based questions and, in some cases, skills tests.
- Final Steps: Successful candidates will receive a contract and prepare for their assignment.
Important Considerations
- High Competition: Becoming a UN Volunteer is competitive. Candidates with relevant skills, experience, and a strong dedication to the UN’s mission have a better chance of selection.
- Conditions of Service: International UN Volunteers receive certain allowances to support their assignment. These are not considered compensation or salary but include a monthly living allowance, medical insurance, annual leave, and a resettlement allowance at the end of the assignment. Travel fares and a setting-in grant may also be provided.
- No General Deadlines: While specific advertised opportunities will have deadlines, there isn’t an overall deadline for registering in the UNV Global Talent Pool. You can register and update your profile at any time. Remember to keep your profile active by accessing it at least once a year.
- Beware of Scams: The application process for a UNV position is free. Never pay any fee to apply.
To get started, visit the official UN Volunteers website: www.unv.org and navigate to the “Become a volunteer” section. Good luck with your application!