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 promotes sustainable agricultural practices and food systems that are efficient, inclusive, resilient, and environmentally friendly. The FAO volunteer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Regular Volunteer Programme is part of this mission, providing opportunities for individuals to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework to support the 2030 Agenda.

Job Overview:
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals the chance to engage in volunteer actions that align with FAO's mission and the broader UN Sustainable Development Goals. Volunteers will be assigned to fields relevant to FAO's work, contributing to initiatives aimed at improving food security and nutrition globally. 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 are expected to adapt to an international multicultural environment, demonstrating good communication skills and a commitment to FAO's values. This position is ideal for those looking to gain experience in international development and contribute to meaningful change in the fight against hunger and malnutrition.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The volunteer will perform various functions as outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) provided 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 nutrition and food systems; participating in workshops and training sessions; and collaborating with other volunteers and staff to promote FAO's mission. The volunteer may also be involved in outreach activities to raise awareness about food security issues and engage with local communities. Overall, the role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.

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. Additionally, candidates must be nationals of FAO member countries, be aged 18 or older, and demonstrate the ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment. Good communication skills are essential, as is a commitment 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 additional qualifications or training relevant to the fields of agriculture, food security, nutrition, or international development, although specific higher education degrees are not mandatory for this volunteer role.

Experience:
While specific professional experience is not required, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and contribute to FAO's objectives, and any prior volunteer or internship experience in international organizations or NGOs will 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.

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 complete their online profile accurately and attach a letter of motivation and copies of academic qualifications. Applications must be submitted through the FAO recruitment portal, and incomplete applications will not be considered. FAO is a non-smoking environment.