UNICEF–UNV Youth on the Move Programme 2026: Paid UN Volunteer Opportunity for Youth

The UNICEF – United Nations Volunteers Youth on the Move Programme 2026 is a unique paid UN Volunteer opportunity designed for young people from displaced and migrant backgrounds.

This initiative aims to create inclusive pathways for talented youth who face barriers in accessing internships and entry-level jobs due to displacement or migration challenges.

About the Programme

The programme offers a 12-month paid UN Volunteer assignment with UNICEF offices worldwide.

• Duration: 12 months
• Type: Paid UN Volunteer placement
• Location: Multiple countries (depending on assignment)
• Focus: Youth inclusion, development, and humanitarian work

Participants gain real-world experience working with one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations. (United Nations Volunteers)

Key Highlights

• Paid UN Volunteer opportunity
• Work directly with UNICEF teams
• Gain international development experience
• Contribute to global social impact projects
• Build professional and leadership skills

Who Can Apply?

This programme specifically targets youth facing mobility challenges.

• Refugees
• Asylum seekers
• Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
• Migrants

Applicants must be aged 20–32 years and face barriers to education or employment due to displacement. (United Nations Volunteers)

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 20–32 years
• Must belong to displaced or migrant communities
• Facing barriers to learning or employment opportunities
• Not necessarily required to have a university degree
• Must have legal eligibility to work in the country of assignment

Female candidates and underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. (United Nations Volunteers)

Programme Benefits

Participants receive multiple professional and financial benefits.

• Monthly allowance (UN Volunteer stipend)
• Professional work experience with UNICEF
• Learning and career development opportunities
• Exposure to international development work
• Networking with global professionals

Programme Impact

The programme builds on a successful pilot initiative where:

• 23 youth worked with UNICEF globally (2022–2024)
• Expanded placements across multiple countries
• Focus on breaking barriers to employment

This initiative aims to “break the glass ceiling” for youth on the move by creating equal opportunities. (United Nations Volunteers)

Application Process

• Create a profile on the UNV platform
• Apply for available Youth on the Move assignments
• Some candidates may be nominated by organizations
• Submit required documents and background details

Opportunities are released periodically, so applicants should monitor updates regularly. (United Nations Volunteers)

Why You Should Apply

This programme is one of the most inclusive UN opportunities available.

• Gain paid experience with a UN agency
• Overcome barriers to global career opportunities
• Build skills in humanitarian and development sectors
• Contribute to meaningful social impact

Final Thoughts

The UNICEF–UNV Youth on the Move Programme 2026 is a transformative opportunity for young people from migrant and displaced backgrounds. By combining paid work experience with global exposure, it helps unlock the potential of youth who are often excluded from traditional career pathways.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, this programme can be a powerful step toward building an international career with the United Nations system.