Indonesian older population become increasingly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. UN Volunteers ensured everyone received proper healthcare as a part of the humanitarian response in Lebak, Banten (UNV, 2019).
Indonesian older population become increasingly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. UN Volunteers ensured everyone received proper healthcare as a part of the humanitarian response in Lebak, Banten (UNV, 2019).
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Your first week(s)

The first days and weeks of your assignment can shape your entire experience. What should you do next? Use the arrival guidance below to organize your orientation and cover all items.

1. Schedule recurring meetings with your Supervisor 

Use these to develop your workplan and get guidance and feedback on your deliverables. Also, gain access to host entity learning and other resources to facilitate your work and performance.  

Here are some suggested topics to cover during your discussions:

2. Find an accommodation for your stay

UN Volunteers are primarily responsible for securing a permanent accommodation cleared by United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS). 

The Host Entity and/or UNV Field Unit (if present) could assist you by providing you contacts of real-estate agents, internal announcement boards, and social media groups. 

Some real-estate agents may charge you a fee and you should ask at the beginning.

Seek advice from your colleagues and UNV buddies.

3. Open a local bank account

If you open a new bank account or change your details, Update your bank information in UVP.

If you wish to, you could also open a bank account with UNFCU. Contact them directly once you are at the duty station.

Bank information entered in UVP will be processed by our office (GSSU) in Kuala Lumpur. They will contact you if clarification is required.  

INFO: Ensure all information is accurate as an error will delay payment of your entitlements.

4. Get your medical insurance details

All UN Volunteers are medically covered by Cigna Health Benefits. Upon entry on duty, Cigna will automatically enrol you for coverage.

Your Cigna online account credentials and downloadable ID card will be sent directly by the insurance provider via email. Subsequently, Cigna will send the physical ID card directly to the UNDP Country Office/UNV Field Unit via post.

You may also contact Cigna directly at the following email addresses:

  • International UN Volunteers: unv.internationals@cigna.com
  • National UN Volunteers: unv.nationals@cigna.com
5. Complete your 4 essential e-courses

Complete the 4 UNV core eLearning courses if not already done. You have 1 month after arrival to do so. Else, risk losing access to UNV learning programmes.

e-learning modules on UNV Conditions of Service

Volunteering for the Sustainable Development Goals course

Know your Obligations and Rights as a UN Volunteer course

Ethics and Integrity as UN Volunteer course

Keep certificates of completion for record and spot check.

You must update completion information to your UVP profile under “Other Qualifications”.
6. Update your official contact details

You may receive an official email address from the host entity within the first weeks of your arrival.

Update your profile information on UNDSS TRIP including local contact information for emergencies and supply your actual UN email address. 

Note that all official communication from UNV on your assignment related queries and allowance, learning opportunities, as well as support during emergencies will be sent to your register email address on UVP.