Call for Expression of Interest - FAO Regular Volunteer Programme for FAO headquarters (HQ)

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is dedicated to defeating hunger and achieving food security for all, ensuring regular access to high-quality food for active, healthy lives. Operating in over 130 countries with more than 195 Members, FAO believes everyone can contribute to ending hunger. The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals a chance to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework, promoting efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life, leaving no one behind.

Job Purpose

The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme aims to strategically mobilize volunteer services from citizens of FAO Member nations. Volunteers will contribute to the organization's mission of ending hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity. The programme provides a platform for individuals to apply their skills and actions in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework. Volunteers will be assigned to areas relevant to FAO's work, supporting the transformation towards more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems, ultimately contributing to better production, improved nutrition, a healthier environment, and an enhanced quality of life for all, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Responsibilities

The volunteer's primary responsibility is to perform functions as detailed in the specific Terms of Reference (TOR) developed by the hiring office. These tasks will be aligned with the mission and ongoing work of FAO, contributing to the organization's strategic objectives. Volunteers are expected to apply their skills and knowledge within their assigned field, supporting FAO's efforts to achieve food security and promote sustainable agri-food systems. This role requires adherence to FAO's core competencies, including Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. The volunteer will work under the guidance of an assigned supervisor, contributing to projects and initiatives that advance FAO's mandate and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Work Experience

While specific work experience is not a mandatory minimum requirement beyond secondary education, relevant working or research experience in one of the fields relevant to the Organization's work is considered an asset. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to adapt to an international, multicultural environment and possess good communication skills. Adherence to FAO's values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All, and Integrity and Transparency is also expected.

Skills

Key competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement. Candidates should possess a working knowledge of at least one FAO language, with a second language being an asset. Adaptability to an international, multicultural environment and strong communication skills are essential. Relevant working or research experience in FAO-related fields is beneficial. All candidates must adhere to FAO's core values: Commitment to FAO, Respect for All, and Integrity and Transparency.

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