Applications are open for the fully funded United Nations Youth Volunteers Programme. The application deadline for the program is 13th September 2020.

Each year, the Swiss Government finances up to 30 United Nations Youth Volunteer (UNYV) positions. UNYV assignments, which last one year, are a unique opportunity to learn, discover the multilateral system and kick-start your career in the area of international cooperation. This program is reserved for Swiss nationals only, therefore the number of applicants is relatively low.

To ensure one can fully immerse in these assignments, all travel, relocation, life and health insurance costs are covered by the programme and a monthly living allowance is paid.

Why Swiss UN Youth Volunteer positions

• To work with UN organisations in developing countries
• To obtain on-the-job training
• To increase knowledge and competencies in your work area of interest, while living in dynamic and multifaceted settings
• To join the work force of young Swiss professionals in the area of international cooperation

Types of assignment

UNYV positions are very diverse, depend on the UN organizations’ thematic priorities, and are oriented towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Some examples of types of positions:

• Human rights
• Programme analysis and coordination
• Gender equality
• Monitoring and evaluation
• Peacebuilding coordination

Graduates with a background from law to economics, social sciences to international relations are encouraged to apply to the program.

Benefits of United Nations Youth Volunteers Program

The successful applicants will receive a monthly living allowance which enables you to sustain a modest and secure standard of living at the duty station (approximately 1500 – 3000 USD per month depending on the living costs in the duty station). The allowances are however not to be understood as a compensation, reward or salary in exchange for your work. Benefits such as travel and health insurance are covered by UNV.

Minimum Requirements

• Swiss nationality
• Master’s degree in a relevant field
• Ideally 12 months of relevant professional experience (min. 3 months – max. 24 months)
• Max. 28 years old at the start of the assignment
• Excellent command of English and active knowledge of 2 official Swiss languages
• Demonstrated thematic interest in international cooperation, development, human rights, peace promotion or humanitarian affairs