FAO Regular Volunteer Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations 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. The FAO volunteer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Regular Volunteer Programme is a key component of this mission, mobilizing volunteers to contribute to sustainable agri-food systems and improve nutrition and environmental conditions globally.

Job Overview:
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals the opportunity to engage in volunteer actions that align with the organization's mission to combat hunger and promote food security. Volunteers will be assigned to various fields relevant to FAO's work and will report to an assigned supervisor. The role is designed to support the transformation of agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. Volunteers will contribute to the overarching goals of better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all, ensuring that no one is left behind. This position is ideal for those looking to gain experience in international development and contribute to meaningful change in global food systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Volunteers will perform tasks as specified in the Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the hiring office. Responsibilities may include assisting in research, data collection, project implementation, and community outreach efforts. Volunteers are expected to adapt to an international multicultural environment and demonstrate good communication skills. They will also be involved in activities that support the FAO's mission and may participate in workshops, training sessions, and other events that promote the organization's objectives. The specific duties will vary based on the volunteer's assigned field and the needs of the FAO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education and possess a working knowledge of at least one FAO language, which includes 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 strong communication skills. FAO values commitment, respect, and integrity, and candidates should align with these values.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. Candidates with higher educational qualifications may be viewed favorably, especially if their studies are relevant to the fields of agriculture, nutrition, environmental science, or international development. Academic qualifications should be documented and submitted as part of the application process.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to new environments, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams. Experience in volunteer work or community service may also be beneficial and will be taken into consideration during the selection process.

Languages:
A working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in a second FAO language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application. Strong communication skills in the chosen language are essential for effective collaboration and engagement within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme does not provide any remuneration to volunteers. Candidates are encouraged to apply without any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. The organization promotes diversity and encourages qualified female applicants, nationals from 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. Candidates with family members employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible for this programme. The application process requires candidates to create an online profile, attach a letter of motivation, and submit their academic qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and candidates are advised to apply well before the deadline.