About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve food security for all. The FAO Volunteer Programme offers individuals the opportunity to contribute volunteer support to the Organization’s work under the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the FAO Strategic Framework, aiming to transform agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. Selected volunteers will be assigned to an activity sector relevant to FAO’s mission and tasks defined by the receiving office. Placements last up to a maximum of 6 months at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.
Salary and benefits
- Gain professional experience within a specialized agency of the United Nations.
- Contribute directly to global sustainable development and food security initiatives.
- Work within a multicultural international environment.
- Note: FAO does not pay any remuneration or salary to volunteers.
Who can apply?
- Must have an educational level equivalent to at least secondary school completion.
- Must be fluent in at least one FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish); knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset.
- Must hold the nationality of one of the FAO Member countries.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be able to adapt to a multicultural international environment and possess good communication skills.
- Candidates whose first-degree relative is employed by FAO under any contract type are not eligible.
- Must have valid legal residence or right to stay in Italy/Rome prior to joining.
Required documents
- Online application form acting as a personal history profile
- Cover letter
- Copy of diplomas
When to apply
- Applications are open from September 21, 2026.
- Deadline to apply is December 31, 2026, at 22:59 UTC.
How to apply
- Access the FAO recruitment portal via the Jobs at FAO website.
- Complete the online application form with accurate information regarding work experience, education, and languages.
- Attach your cover letter and copies of your diplomas.
- Submit your application through the recruitment portal before the deadline.
Additional information
- FAO charges no fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Women, nationals of non-represented or under-represented member countries, and candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Selected candidates are subject to background checks and must adhere to FAO's core values and zero-tolerance policies.
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…
- An ideal opportunity for individuals seeking early-career exposure or professional engagement within the United Nations system.
- Well-suited for candidates passionate about global food security, international development, and agrifood systems transformation.
- Provides a valuable multicultural networking environment at FAO's headquarters in Rome.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is strictly unpaid, meaning participants must independently cover all living and accommodation costs in Rome.
- Relocation and legal residency arrangements in Italy must be managed by the candidate prior to starting.
- The maximum duration is limited to 6 months.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This volunteer programme fits well for individuals looking to build international institutional experience, enhance their resume with UN exposure, or explore career paths in global agriculture and development without committing to a permanent position immediately.
Our take
Candidates who have independent financial means to support themselves in Rome and wish to gain hands-on experience within a major international organization should strongly consider applying. Those requiring a paid livelihood or relocation funding will find this unpaid format unsuitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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