FAO Regular Volunteer Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. Established in 1945, FAO has over 195 member countries and operates in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to end hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity, and it actively engages in initiatives that support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The FAO volunteer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals the opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission by engaging in volunteer actions that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Volunteers will be assigned to fields relevant to FAO's mission and will report to an assigned supervisor. The role is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the areas of food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture. Volunteers will be expected to adapt to an international multicultural environment and demonstrate good communication skills. This position is ideal for those looking to gain experience in international development and contribute to global efforts to combat hunger and promote sustainable food systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Volunteers will perform various functions as specified in the Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the hiring office. Responsibilities may include assisting in research, data collection, and analysis related to food security and agricultural practices, supporting the implementation of projects aimed at improving food systems, and engaging with local communities to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Volunteers may also be involved in organizing events, workshops, and training sessions to raise awareness about food security issues and FAO's initiatives. The specific duties will vary based on the needs of the organization and the skills of the volunteer.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education and 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. Candidates should be nationals of FAO member countries and must be aged 18 or older. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills. FAO values commitment, respect for all, and integrity and transparency, and candidates should align with these values.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. Higher education or specialized training in fields related to agriculture, food security, nutrition, or international development may be advantageous but is not mandatory for volunteer positions.

Experience:
While specific professional experience is not required, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is considered beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and contribute to the organization's goals, and any previous volunteer or internship experience in similar areas will be viewed favorably.

Languages:
A working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Knowledge of a second FAO language will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, and processing. The organization encourages qualified female applicants, nationals of non- and under-represented member countries, and candidates from Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries (LIFDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Land-locked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to apply. Selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to joining FAO. It is important to note that candidates with family members employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible for the volunteer programme. Additionally, FAO does not provide any remuneration to volunteers, and all applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.