United Nations Volunteers

In addition, volunteers provide their services in areas such as refugee status determination, programme delivery and in administrative functions - information technology, logistics or communication. Contracts are usually for 6-12 months, with a maximum period of four years.

“I’m very pleased with my assignment with UNHCR as a volunteer in Gao. It has allowed me to benefit from the experience of peacebuilding through the project. It is a rewarding experience – both professionally and personally.”

Deoulemgoto Ndouba, UN volunteer for UNHCR, in Gao, Mali.

How do I become a UN Volunteer at UNHCR?

  • If you are at least 25-years-old and interested in serving outside your home country, you can become an International UN Volunteer. You must have a university degree, and a minimum of two years relevant working experience Please register on UNV's website and you will be contacted if a suitable assignment is available.
  • If you are at least 22-years-old and would like to volunteer in your home country, please check out the local UNDP/UNV website for National UN Volunteer options.
  • If you would like to support UNHCR from a computer anywhere in the world, please look for UN Online Volunteering opportunities.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

Volunteering at UNHCR is a great chance to contribute to your local or host community and to gain work experience in international organizations which may open the doors for a career in the humanitarian sector.

“The best thing about dealing with so many cases every day is that you feel you are doing something useful.”

Yasmine ElDemerdash, UN Volunteer, Reception Coordinator in Cairo