Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahrain, Belize, Brunei Darussalam, China, Cuba, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Grenada, Guines-Bissau, Indonesia, Kiribati, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Libya, Marshall Islands, Micronesia (Federated States of), Nauru, Oman, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Qatar, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Timor-Leste, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu.
Frequently Asked Questions
The UN Talent Pipeline is a capacity-building programme designed to help professionals from developing countries that are considered unrepresented or underrepresented within the UN Secretariat increase their readiness for UN career opportunities. Through targeted training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, this programme will strengthen your job applications and enhance your competitiveness in the UN recruitment process. By joining, you will contribute to a more diverse UN workforce in the future.
This strategic initiative is supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China through the Trust Fund for UN Peace and Development. It directly contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 16.8, which calls for broader and more inclusive participation of developing countries in institutions of global governance. The initiative aims to build a robust pipeline of qualified candidates from unrepresented and underrepresented developing Member States.
Is there an age limit for applicants to the UN Talent Pipeline?
There is no specific age limit as long as you meet the eligibility criteria specified in the respective announcement.
What are the nationality requirements for the pipeline applicants?
The Talent Pipeline is open to applicants from developing un- and under-represented UN Member States. Please refer to the specific eligibility criteria listed for each pipeline to see the eligible countries or see the eligible Member States listed above ⬆️ Un- and under-represented UN Member States in the UN Secretariat are determined by the system of desirable ranges as approved by the General Assembly.
Also, note that the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs’ updated classification of developing countries from May 2022, based on the M49 standard, is used as a reference. (https://unstats.un.org/unsd/methodology/m49/)
What are the educational requirements for the Talent Pipeline?
Applicants should hold an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field. However, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s) combined with relevant experience can be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree.
Do I need prior UN or international experience to apply?
No, prior UN or international experience is not required to apply for the pipelines. While it can be an advantage, members of the talent pipeline will be enrolled in a capacity building programme to enhancing their knowledge, skills and competitiveness for UN roles.
What is the language requirement for the Talent Pipeline?
Applicants must have at least an intermediate level of proficiency in English, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Are there any costs associated with joining the Talent Pipeline?
No. Participation in the Pipeline is free of charge. The UN and its Member State partners are investing time and resources in this talent pipeline. Therefore, once accepted, it is expected that all members fully commit to completing a structured training and capacity-building programme, requiring approximately three to five hours per month over a three—to six-month period.
How will applicants be assessed?
Applicants must first meet the eligibility criteria to be considered. Those who qualify may undergo assessment to evaluate relevant knowledge and skills, followed by an interview.
Can I apply to multiple UN Talent Pipelines at the same time?
No. Each applicant can only apply for one Talent Pipeline.
How long will the selection process take?
Depending on the volume of applicants, the selection process might take one to two months after the deadline. Candidates will be notified via email of the outcome of their application.
Will participation in the Talent Pipeline guarantee me a job with the UN?
No. While completion does not guarantee employment, the aim is to strengthen your competitiveness for UN jobs. Your engagement in learning and networking will be key to leveraging this experience and increasing your chances for an international career with the UN Secretariat.
How will joining the Pipeline give me an advantage in applying for UN jobs?
As a Talent Pipeline participant, you will have access to tailored capacity development programmes designed to enhance your skills and competitiveness for UN positions. These include self-paced learning modules, instructor-led virtual group webinars, mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities. Additionally, you will receive regular email updates with valuable resources sharing. These comprehensive support mechanisms aim to help strengthen your applications and position you as a strong candidate for UN jobs.
Can I apply if I already work for the UN Secretariat?
No. Current UN Secretariat staff members are not eligible to apply. However, personnel from UN Funds, Programmes, and specialized agencies may apply, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.
What happens after I complete the Talent Pipeline training programme?
After completing the Talent Pipeline training programme, you will continue to receive career support, including updates on UN job openings, networking opportunities, and skills-building resources. You will be part of a broader professional network, connecting with peers, alumni, and UN professionals for mentorship and guidance.
What if I need reasonable accommodation in the application or assessment process?
The UN Secretariat is committed to offering reasonable accommodation for talent pipeline member candidates during recruitment. Applicants can confidentially request reasonable accommodation by emailing talent-pipeline@un.org, which will be reviewed and responded to by the recruitment team, as appropriate.