Applications are open for the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) Program 2026. The program offers individuals from around the world the opportunity to contribute to sustainable development, humanitarian initiatives, peacebuilding efforts, and community projects through volunteer service with the United Nations.
Managed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UNV Program connects skilled and motivated individuals with UN agencies and partner organizations worldwide. Opportunities are available both online and in-person, allowing volunteers to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable international experience.
Types of UN Volunteer Opportunities
The UNV Program offers three main categories of volunteering opportunities:
International UN Volunteers: International Volunteers serve in countries other than their own. These assignments often require specialized skills and professional experience and may take place in challenging environments where volunteers support development and humanitarian projects.
National UN Volunteers: National Volunteers serve within their own countries and contribute to local development initiatives, peacebuilding efforts, and community programs.
Online Volunteers
Online volunteering allows individuals to support organizations remotely from anywhere in the world. Volunteers can contribute through research, writing, translation, design, communications, data analysis, and many other tasks.
No travel is required, and volunteers receive an electronic certificate upon successful completion of their assignments.
Benefits of the UNV Program
Although UN Volunteers are not considered United Nations staff members and do not receive a salary, selected volunteers receive various forms of support.
Benefits may include:
- Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA)
- Settling-in Grant for international assignments
- Round-trip travel expenses
- Visa support and travel-related reimbursements
- Comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance
- Annual leave and sick leave
- Access to training and professional development opportunities
- End-of-assignment resettlement allowance
The exact benefits depend on the type and duration of the volunteer assignment.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the specific volunteer role, assignment location, and contract type.
Generally, applicants should:
- Be motivated to support the work of the United Nations
- Demonstrate relevant skills, education, or professional experience
- Meet the requirements listed in the specific volunteer vacancy
- Possess good communication and teamwork skills
- Be willing to work in multicultural environments
Applicants should carefully review the requirements of each position before applying.
How to Apply for the UNV Program
For International and National Volunteer Positions
- Visit the UNV Volunteer Opportunities Portal.
- Browse available volunteer assignments.
- Use filters to search by location, category, and volunteer type.
- Select either:
- National Volunteer (for citizens applying within their own country)
- International Volunteer (for applicants serving outside their home country)
- Create a UNV account.
- Complete your profile and submit your application.
For Online Volunteering Opportunities
- Visit the UNV Online Volunteering Platform.
- Create a free account.
- Search for available online assignments.
- Apply directly to opportunities that match your skills and interests.
Online volunteering opportunities are open to applicants worldwide and can be completed from any location.
Why Join the UNV Program?
The United Nations Volunteers Program provides a unique opportunity to contribute to global development while building professional skills and international experience. Whether serving online or in person, volunteers play an important role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supporting communities around the world.
Host Organization
- United Nations Volunteers (UNV)
- Administered By United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Program Type: Volunteer Program
- Funding: Volunteer Living Allowance and Additional Benefits Available
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Application Deadline: Applications are accepted throughout the year depending on available volunteer assignments.
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