The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program is one of the world’s largest volunteer initiatives. And currently, the organisation is seeking volunteers from all around the world in various sectors to become part of a global community and contribute to sustainable development, humanitarian action, and global peace.
The United Nations Volunteer (UNV) Program is divided into three different kinds: Volunteering abroad, nationally, and online. Each program offers a unique opportunity to work with UN agencies, governments, and partner organisations.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) oversees this project, which incorporates volunteers into development initiatives to support the Sustainable Development Goals. More information regarding UNV requirements, financial incentives, and application processes can be found below.
Why Join the UNV Program?
The United Nations Volunteer program is open to everyone, regardless of whether you are a student, a professional, or a fresh graduate. And it offers opportunities to contribute to development, humanitarian work, and global peace.
Becoming a member of this program as a volunteer means becoming part of a global network of change makers committed to solving real-world challenges. Benefits of this program include the following:
- Monthly allowance or stipend
- Accommodation support
- Visa cost and travel expenses
- Meal support or allowances
- Health and medical insurance
- Professional networking opportunities
- Career development and skill acquisition
- Global recognition and collaboration
- UN Certification
Program Description –United Nations Volunteer Program 2026
UN Volunteers have traditionally been at the forefront of humanitarian initiatives, community development, disaster relief, and social transformation. They put endless effort into building resilient and inclusive communities, from enhancing health care to reducing hunger, from education programs to poverty alleviation.
The UN Volunteer Program is divided into three types: UN International Volunteers, National UN Volunteers and Online Volunteers. Depending on the role and type of contract, the responsibility of the volunteer differs.
1. UN International Volunteers
For this kind of UN program, candidates must be citizens of a country other than the country of assignment in order to be eligible. These volunteers provide specific skills and knowledge while working outside of their home countries.
2. National UN Volunteers
National UN Volunteers work in their country. They collaborate with people who share their enthusiasm for advancing national growth, fostering peace, and aiding national development.
3. Online Volunteers
Anyone can apply for volunteer opportunities online on the UNV Unified Volunteer Platform (UVP) from any device, anywhere in the globe. For this type, applicants don’t need a specific background to become an online volunteer. In the end, volunteers will be given electronic certificates of appreciation by organizations.
United Nations Volunteer Program – Areas of Engagement
UN Volunteers contribute across a wide range of fields, including:
- Humanitarian assistance and crisis response
- Sustainable development and climate action
- Public health and education
- Human rights and social inclusion
- Peacebuilding and conflict prevention
- Data, IT, communications, and administration
Qualification – United Nations Volunteer Program
The qualification requirements for the United Nations Volunteer program vary depending on the assignment, role, term, and type of contract. This means that different requirements apply to different roles and responsibilities. It is recommended that you review the requirements for each position.
However, candidates must be committed, motivated, and desire to serve the global community and contribute to sustainable development, humanitarian action, and global peace. Note that the UNV program requires no specific background, and it is open to everyone, which includes:
- Students
- Fresh graduates
- Early, Mid, and Senior career professionals
- Individuals from all around the world
How To Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application online using the official UNV website. Click the link below to get started!
In addition, candidates can also submit their application physically or in person at the program’s headquarters.
Click HERE to begin your online application