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.

Job Overview:
The FAO volunteer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals the opportunity to contribute their volunteer actions to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework. Volunteers will engage in activities that promote efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems. The role involves reporting to an assigned supervisor and performing tasks as specified in the Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the hiring office. Volunteers will be expected to adapt to an international multicultural environment and demonstrate good communication skills while contributing to FAO's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Volunteers will perform various functions as outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) provided by the hiring office. This may include assisting in research, data collection, and analysis related to food security and agricultural practices. Volunteers may also be involved in outreach activities, community engagement, and supporting the implementation of FAO projects. The specific duties will depend on the field of assignment and the needs of the organization, but all tasks will align with FAO's mission to combat hunger and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

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, aged 18 or older, and demonstrate the ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment. Good communication skills are essential, and candidates should adhere to FAO's core competencies, which include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. Candidates are encouraged to have relevant academic qualifications that align with the field of work they will be engaged in during their volunteer service. This could include studies in agriculture, food security, environmental science, or related fields, depending on the specific role within the FAO.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the values of FAO and possess skills that will contribute to the organization's goals. Experience in volunteer work or community service may also be beneficial.

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 is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application. Proficiency in additional languages can be advantageous in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. 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. The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme does not provide remuneration to volunteers, and candidates with family members employed by FAO are not eligible to apply. All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality, and only qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews.