About the opportunity
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme provides opportunities for individuals to contribute their volunteer actions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO’s Strategic Framework. The programme supports the 2030 Agenda through the transformation toward more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life. Volunteers are assigned to a field relevant to the mission and work of FAO at its headquarters in Rome, Italy, for a maximum duration of up to 6 months.
Funding and benefits
- Gain professional experience within a specialized agency of the United Nations
- Contribute directly to international efforts to end hunger and achieve food security
- Work in an international, multicultural environment at FAO headquarters
- Enhance professional skills and build global networks in agri-food systems and sustainable development
Who can apply?
- Must have completed secondary school education
- Be nationals of FAO Member countries
- Be aged 18 or older
- Possess a working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish); knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset
- Be able to adapt to an international multicultural environment and have good communication skills
- Have relevant working or research experience in one of the fields of the organization
- Candidates with family members (mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, or son) employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible
- Selected candidates should have appropriate residence or immigration status in Italy prior to joining the organization
Required documents
- Accurate and complete online profile including employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Letter of motivation
- Copy of academic qualifications
When to apply
- Opening date: September 21, 2026
- Closing date: December 31, 2026 at 10:59:00 PM UTC
How to apply
- Visit the Jobs at FAO recruitment portal and complete your online profile
- Attach your letter of motivation and a copy of your academic qualifications to your online profile
- Submit your application through the recruitment portal before the deadline
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing)
- FAO does not provide any remuneration to volunteers
- Qualified female applicants, nationals of non- and under-represented members, persons with disabilities, and candidates from LIFDCs, LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS are encouraged to apply
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for students, recent graduates, or professionals looking to gain hands-on international experience within the United Nations system.
- Well-suited for individuals with a strong interest in global food security, agriculture, nutrition, and sustainable development.
- A strong match for candidates who meet basic secondary education requirements and possess fluency in at least one official FAO language.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is strictly voluntary and does not provide financial remuneration or a stipend.
- Applicants must already secure appropriate legal residence or immigration status in Italy prior to starting the assignment.
- Family members of existing FAO staff members are ineligible to participate in the programme.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This volunteer programme is an excellent stepping stone for those seeking early-career exposure to international organizations, public policy, and global development initiatives without requiring an advanced degree immediately.
Our take
Candidates who are in a position to self-fund a short-term stay in Rome and wish to gain prestigious UN experience should seriously consider applying, while those requiring paid employment should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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