The International UN Volunteers (UNV) Programme is a vibrant global initiative that brings together people from all corners of the world to contribute to peace, development, and social progress. Designed for those eager to make a real difference, the programme offers volunteers the chance to engage in meaningful work, both locally and internationally, while gaining invaluable professional and personal experience.
As we move into 2026, the UNV Programme continues to create pathways for passionate and committed individuals to leave a tangible impact through assignments with UN agencies and field projects across the globe.
Explore Open Roles: Where Can You Make an Impact?
UN Volunteers can apply for a wide variety of roles, ranging from project management to communications, gender equality, and humanitarian response. Here are some of the exciting positions currently open:
UNDP
- Donor Reporting Officer – Yemen – Onsite – 28/01/2026
WFP
- Resilience Officer Specialist – Mauritania – Onsite – 27/01/2026
UN Women
- Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Parliamentary Committee Specialist – Papua New Guinea – Onsite – 26/01/2026
FAO
- Natural Resources Management Associate – Ethiopia – Onsite – 23/01/2026
MINURSO
- Paramedic / Emergency Nurse – Western Sahara – Onsite – 21/01/2026
UNHCR
- Associate IT Service Delivery Management Officer – Somalia – Onsite – 22/01/2026
- Climate Resilience and Livelihoods Specialist – South Sudan – Onsite – 15/01/2026
UNICEF
- Partnerships Specialist (Innovative Financing) – Malawi – Onsite – 19/01/2026
- Private Sector and Food Systems Specialist – Côte d’Ivoire – Onsite – 15/01/2026
- Learning & Development Officer – Türkiye – Onsite – 18/01/2026
UNICEF Offices
- Communication Officer – UNICEF Denmark – Denmark – Onsite – 24/01/2026
- Child Protection Officer – UNICEF Madagascar – Madagascar – Onsite – 08/02/2026
UNRCO / UN Multi-Country Office
- Special Assistant to RC / Development Coordination – Micronesia (FSM) – Onsite – 21/01/2026
UNFPA
- Gender and Human Rights Analyst – Angola – Onsite – 08/02/2026
IOM
- Counter-Trafficking Associate – Nigeria – Onsite – 08/02/2026
UNODC
- Communication Associate – Fiji – Onsite – 08/02/2026
ESCAP
- National Planning & Monitoring Specialist – Fiji – Onsite – 08/02/2026
IFAD
- Rural Finance Officer – Côte d’Ivoire – Onsite – 08/02/2026
These opportunities may be in-person, either internationally or within your own country, or online, allowing for virtual volunteering—making the programme accessible to those who cannot relocate. Find volunteer roles details on the official website at app.unv.org/?categoryType=INTERNATIONAL
Why Volunteer with the UN?
Participating in the UN Volunteers Programme offers more than just experience—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and explore the world:
- Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience working with international development organizations.
- Networking: Build connections with UN staff, partner organizations, and fellow volunteers.
- Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in new communities and cultures, expanding your global perspective.
- Stipends and Allowances: International volunteers often receive a modest living allowance, insurance, and travel support.
Who Can Apply?
To join the UNV Programme, you generally need to:
- Be passionate about contributing to sustainable development and humanitarian work.
- Meet the specific requirements for each role, which may include academic qualifications, language skills, or professional experience.
Some positions may have additional criteria, so it’s important to review each assignment carefully.
How to Become a UN Volunteer
The application process is simple and fully online:
- Create a Profile: Register on the UNV website and complete your profile, highlighting your skills, experience, and interests.
- Search for Assignments: Browse the UNV Opportunities Portal for roles that match your background and career goals.
- Submit an Application: Apply directly through the portal, submitting the required documents.
- Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or assessments.
- Onboarding and Training: Once selected, volunteers receive orientation and training before deployment.
Volunteering with the UN is more than a career step—it’s an opportunity to make a global impact, learn from diverse experiences, and become part of a worldwide network dedicated to peace and development.