The volunteer organization of the United Nations is United Nations Volunteers, in short – UNV, which provides grassroots-level response in emergencies and local-level support to peace, humanitarian and development initiatives.

This joint partnership initiative between UNEP and UNV has a twin objective: To deploy the second cohort of 12 young talented individuals in areas related to UNEP's mandate. To seek candidates from Latin America and the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Africa. If you are 33 years of age or younger, check out the assignment opportunities. Women and individuals from marginalized groups are especially encouraged to apply.

The United Nations E-Government Survey is a development tool that examines countries’ strengths, challenges and opportunities, and informs policies and strategies.  From June to September 2023, each Online Volunteer collected data through online assessments of national and city-level public sector portals, including associated official websites of 193 United Nations Member States.

Online Volunteers showcased their graphic design skills and represented the goals of Algeria's Green Entrepreneurship Week. Led by an Online Volunteer from Tunisia, Samher Abbessi, the Online Volunteering team with UNDP came up with promotional materials and presentations including a vibrant logo symbolizing sustainability and circular practices. 

Olena Samoilova is a Ukrainian refugee who left her home with her family when the war started in February 2022. She found refuge in Hungary the following month. Driven by empathy and sense of responsibility to support others, she volunteered at migration service centers shortly after she arrived in Hungary.

A retired Indian Army Officer with over a decade of military service, Poonam joined UNICEF in 2022 as a Child Protection Officer. She spreads the word about the negative impact of child marriage on everyone — the child plus society at large. 

We need water to survive. Just as much as we need air, sunlight and food.  As a Communications Specialist, my main task is to ensure that the work of WWQA is given the attention it deserves. In addition, I raise awareness of clean drinking water in communities.  How do I do that? Through creative outreach — success stories, social media, the corporate website, and more. Water is a basic human right and everyone needs to be part of the conversation.

Georgina Edwards, UN Volunteer Innovation Analyst with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in South Africa After finishing my graduate degree, I interned with UN-Habitat and that set the stage for my UN career.  Transitioning to a UN Volunteer assignment in 2021 was a turning point, allowing me to step into my dream role as an Innovation Analyst with UNFPA.

Leyla started her volunteering journey with UNDP as a Project Clerk. She provides administrative support, maintains project documents, and assists communication across many levels. "I am keen to contribute to a culture of inclusivity within the team and ensure that women's voices are heard and valued at every stage of the project." Leyla shares.

Augustus Rivers Brightman is from the United States of America and has a background in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies. His passion for design and environmental conservation led him to become an Online Volunteer.