FAO Regular Volunteers 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 volunteers to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework for the 2030 Agenda.

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 involved in transforming agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the fight against hunger and malnutrition. Volunteers will be assigned to relevant fields that support FAO's mission and will report to an assigned supervisor. The role requires adaptability to an international multicultural environment and strong communication skills, as volunteers will work alongside diverse teams and stakeholders.

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, project implementation, and community engagement activities. Volunteers are expected to contribute to the development of strategies and initiatives that support FAO's goals, participate in meetings and discussions, and provide feedback on project progress. They will also be involved in knowledge sharing and capacity building within the communities they serve, ensuring that their contributions align with FAO's values and objectives.

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. Strong communication skills and the ability to adapt to a multicultural environment are essential for this role. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to FAO's values of integrity, respect, and transparency.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. Candidates with higher educational qualifications, particularly in fields related to agriculture, food security, nutrition, or international development, may be preferred. However, the emphasis is on relevant experience and language skills rather than formal education alone.

Experience:
While specific professional experience is not mandatory, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and contribute to FAO's objectives through their volunteer work. Experience in community engagement, project management, or agricultural practices can enhance a candidate's application.

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 advantageous and may improve a candidate's prospects for selection. Strong communication skills in the chosen language are essential for effective collaboration and engagement with diverse stakeholders.

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 under-represented 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 are not eligible for this programme. All applications will be treated confidentially, and only qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews.