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 to support the 2030 Agenda through the transformation to 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 fields relevant to the mission and work of the Organization, performing functions specified in the Terms of Reference prepared by the hiring office.
Salary and benefits
- Gain practical international work and research experience within the UN system.
- Contribute directly to global sustainable development and food security goals.
- Develop professional competencies in a multicultural environment.
Who can apply?
- Must have completed secondary school education.
- Working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish); knowledge of a second FAO language is an asset.
- Must be nationals of FAO Member countries.
- Candidates must be aged 18 or older.
- Must be able to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills.
- Candidates with family members (mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, or son) employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible.
- Selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to joining.
Required documents
- Letter of motivation
- Copy of academic qualifications
When to apply
- Job Posting Date: 21 September 2026
- Closure Date: 31 December 2026 at 10:59 PM
How to apply
- Visit the Jobs at FAO recruitment portal and complete your online profile with employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills.
- Attach your letter of motivation and a copy of your academic qualifications to your online profile.
- Submit your application through the FAO recruitment portal before the deadline.
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
- FAO does not provide any remuneration to volunteers.
- Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non- and under-represented Members, and candidates from LIFDCs, LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS are especially 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 individuals seeking hands-on experience within a prominent international organization focused on agriculture and food security.
- Well-suited for candidates looking to build intercultural communication skills and professional networks in the Near East and North Africa.
- A strong fit for motivated professionals or students eager to contribute volunteer efforts toward global sustainable development.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is entirely voluntary and unpaid, meaning candidates must independently cover their living and financial expenses.
- Volunteers must secure their own appropriate residence or legal immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to starting.
- The maximum duration of the assignment is up to 6 months.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity provides valuable UN-system exposure and practical experience that can strengthen a resume, enhance global development competencies, and support early-career or transition goals in international affairs, agriculture, or humanitarian work.
Our take
Applicants who are in a financial position to undertake unpaid volunteer service and wish to gain direct experience within the United Nations should consider applying before the end of the year.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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