Org. Setting and Reporting
Candidates who successfully complete the Young Professionals Programme (YPP) examination process will be placed on a roster used to fill appropriate vacancies. Candidates may be selected from the roster as relevant vacancies become available across the UN Secretariat. The roster is valid and used to fill positions, for a period of three years. It is important to understand that placement on the roster does not guarantee an offer of employment. Candidates selected from the roster will be offered a two-year fixed term contract at the start of their Professional career with the UN.
After two years, and subject to satisfactory performance, they may be granted a continuing contract. YPP placements are at P-1/P-2 level (entry level professional, Associate Officer positions). These positions may become available at various UN Secretariat offices, including, but not limited to: Addis Ababa, Bangkok, Beirut, Geneva, Nairobi, New York, Santiago, Vienna. Successful candidates must be willing to be placed in a position at any UN duty station or field operation.
YPP positions in Development and Sustainability are located primarily in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the Regional Commissions, which are the regional branches of the United Nations Secretariat. These entities support the link between global policies and national and regional action across economic, social, environmental and sustainable development issues, guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Positions may cover a range of functional and substantive areas, including economic affairs, social affairs, population affairs, statistics, data science, environmental protection, and related areas of sustainable development. Specific assignments may focus on particular sectors or areas of specialization. Associate Officers in these positions typically report to a Senior Officer, Head of Unit, Head of Branch or Section, or Chief of Section. Please be sure to carefully read the Special Notice section below and visit careers.un.org/ypp for more information.
Responsibilities
The Young Professionals Programme (YPP) examination in Development and Sustainability covers a broad range of topics, with a focus on economics, statistics, social affairs, environmental issues, and sustainable development, as well as skills related to technology and digital transformation, and programme management support. It also encompasses other areas within the Development and Sustainability field that are addressed by the various entities of the United Nations system. Candidates who are successful in the examination may be appointed to positions in a variety of functional areas. Responsibilities will vary by assignment but may include the following: Research, Analysis and Data
Conducts research and analysis on economic, social, environmental, statistical, demographic and sustainable development issues, including collecting, evaluating, analysing and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data and information from a variety of sources.
Contributes to the collection, validation, compilation, analysis, dissemination and visualization of statistical data and other information, and to the development and maintenance of relevant data platforms and information systems.
Applies appropriate research methods, statistical methodologies, analytical models and other tools, including statistical programming languages and software, to identify trends, assess developments and support evidence-based analysis and decision-making.
Contributes to the development and application of analytical methodologies and tools, including, where relevant, emerging technologies and data science approaches.
Analyses national, regional and global trends, policies and experiences, including progress in the implementation of internationally agreed development goals and frameworks, such as the Sustainable Development Goals. Policy Analysis and Written Outputs
Contributes to the preparation of analytical studies, research reports, background papers, technical documents and other written outputs on economic, social, environmental, statistical, demographic and sustainable development issues.
Prepares briefing notes, presentations, inputs to speeches and other materials, including the communication of technical and analytical findings in a manner accessible to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Researches and maintains up to date information on relevant policies, methodologies, emerging issues and developments within assigned areas of work. Intergovernmental Support and Stakeholder Engagement
Provides substantive support to intergovernmental and expert processes, including preparing inputs to reports, statements and other documentation; following meetings and preparing summaries; and supporting panels, round tables, expert group meetings, seminars and conferences.
Liaises and collaborates, as appropriate, with governments, international and regional organizations, national institutions, academia, civil society and other stakeholders to exchange information and support substantive activities. Technical Cooperation and Capacity Development
Contributes to the design, preparation and implementation of technical cooperation and capacity development programmes and projects, including compiling and analysing relevant data and information and preparing project documentation.
Monitors and assesses the implementation of programmes and projects and contributes to the development of approaches and mechanisms for tracking progress and results.
Supports technical assistance and capacity development activities, including the preparation and delivery of training, workshops and other knowledge-sharing activities and, where applicable, participation in advisory or fact-finding missions. General
Contributes to outreach, knowledge-sharing and communication activities, including the preparation of publications, presentations and other materials for a variety of audiences.
Performs other related duties as required.
Competencies
Professionalism:
Shows pride in work and in achievements
Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter
Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results
Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns
Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges
Remains calm in stressful situations
Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work Planning & Organizing:
Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies
Identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required
Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work
Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning
Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary
Uses time efficiently Teamwork:
Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals
Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others
Places team agenda before personal agenda
Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position
Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings
Education
At least a first-level university degree (i.e., Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent degree of at least three years) in an area of study relevant to economics, statistics, data science, social affairs, environment, and sustainable development. Candidates with an advanced degree are encouraged to apply.
Degrees accepted must be in economics, statistics, data science, social affairs, environment, and sustainable development or a related field, in one of the following areas (to be selected from the “Main Course of Study” dropdown menu): Agriculture, Foresty & Fishery; Business & Administration; Computing; Environmental Protection; Humanities; Law; Mathematics & Statistics; Social & Behavioural Science Important: when preparing your application in Inspira, if you do not see your exact degree listed, please choose the field of study that is closest to your degree, from the “Field of Study” and “Main Course of Study” dropdown menus; then type the exact title in original language as well as its translation in English or French in the additional comment boxes.
Do NOT select “other” for main course of study or field of study (or you will be automatically disqualified).
Work Experience
No work experience is required. Relevant work experience may be taken into consideration as an additional screening criteria when more than 90 candidates from the same country apply to the same exam area.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, either English or French is required. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult https://languages.un.org for details).
Required Languages
Language | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking
English | UN Level II | UN Level II | UN Level II | UN Level II
French | UN Level II | UN Level II | UN Level II | UN Level II
Assessment
The assessment process is divided into 3 stages:
1. Screening of applications
2. Written examination taken online
3. Oral examination / Interviews Knowledge of UN languages may be tested at any of these stages. Applications will be screened on the basis of the eligibility criteria in this Job Opening. The written examination will be conducted via an online testing platform. Candidates convoked for the written examination will be responsible for identifying and securing a location suitable for them to complete the examination (i.e., a computer with a reliable internet connection). Further information regarding the online testing platform and exam preparation guidance will be provided to those convoked for the examination. The written examination is planned to be offered in two parts, with the following tentative timeframe (exact dates to be announced): Part I consists of
1) the General Paper, which assesses competencies and abilities critical to success in working in an international affairs context, and
2) first part of the Specialized Paper, multiple choice questions which assess knowledge and attributes relevant to the exam area. Part I is currently anticipated for February 2027, exact dates to be provided for those invited. Part II (1-2 months after stage
1) consists of the second part of the Specialized Paper, constructed response items (i.e., open-ended questions) which assess knowledge and attributes relevant to the exam area. Only examinees successful in part one of the online exam will be invited to participate in the second part. Only examinees who are successful in the overall written examination will be invited to the oral examination. The oral examination will be conducted via online video conference. The oral examination will assess the key competencies for the job family, as described in the Job Opening.
Part of the final assessment stage, either before, during or after the oral examination may include an element to verify the candidate’s answers given in the Specialized Paper as well as the information in the Candidate Profile submitted. The anticipated timeframe for the oral examinations is mid-2027.
Special Notice
The purpose of the present Job Opening is to invite applications from external candidates who wish to take the Young Professionals Programme (YPP) examination in Development and Sustainability. Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the YPP Careers Page to learn more: careers.un.org/ypp. UN Secretariat General Service (or equivalent) staff members who are eligible to apply through the “G to P” or “G to N” track must not apply through this Job Opening. All others should apply via this external opening (including UNV, JPO, National Officers, interns).
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
1. Have at least a first level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or at least a three-year equivalent) in the fields of study listed in the Education Section of this Job Opening;
2. Be 32 years old or younger by the end of this year (born on or after 1 January 1994);
3. Be fluent in either English or French; and
4. Have the nationality of a participating Member State.
The participating Member States for 2026 YPP are: Afghanistan, Andorra, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Brunei Darussalam, China, Cuba, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Grenada, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Marshall Islands, Micronesia (Federated States of), Monaco, Mongolia, Nauru, Oman, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Qatar, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Vanuatu If more than 90 applicants from the same country apply for the same exam area, those applicants will be further screened and ranked according to points given for the following additional qualifications: highest level of education completed, knowledge of official UN languages, and relevant work experience.
The “top 90” applicants per country per exam area will be convoked to the first stage of the online exam. A maximum of 60 applicants per country per exam area will move forward from the first stage of the online exam to the second stage, based on exam performance.
APPLICANTS MUST SUBMIT SCANNED COPIES OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS, AS ATTACHMENTS IN THEIR APPLICATIONS, TO BE CONSIDERED. 1. Passport or a valid identification document issued by a state authority, showing your name, birth date and nationality, with a photograph; 2. Documentation of University degree(s) (e.g., diploma, transcript or similar official document), reflecting the main course of study selected.
Those who are successful in the YPP examination process will be placed on a roster used to fill appropriate entry-level (P1/P2) vacancies. Candidates may be selected from the roster as relevant vacancies become available across the UN Secretariat, at various offices globally. The roster is valid and used to fill positions, for a period of three years. It is important to understand that placement on the roster does not guarantee an offer of employment.
To learn more about YPP, including the examination process, roster management and recruitment, visit the YPP page on the UN Careers Portal: https://careers.un.org/ypp. Click “apply” to activate the Virtual Assistant or Chatbot, Alba, in Inspira. Alba will answer questions about the YPP.
United Nations Considerations
According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Candidates will not be considered for employment with the United Nations if they have committed violations of international human rights law, violations of international humanitarian law, sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, or if there are reasonable grounds to believe that they have been involved in the commission of any of these acts.
The term “sexual exploitation” means any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another. The term “sexual abuse” means the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions.
The term “sexual harassment” means any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that might reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause offence or humiliation, when such conduct interferes with work, is made a condition of employment or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment, and when the gravity of the conduct warrants the termination of the perpetrator’s working relationship. Candidates who have committed crimes other than minor traffic offences may not be considered for employment.
Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible. The United Nations places no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request, to support their participation in the recruitment process.
By accepting a letter of appointment, staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, who may assign them to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations in accordance with staff regulation 1.2 (c). Further, staff members in the Professional and higher category up to and including the D-2 level and the Field Service category are normally required to move periodically to discharge functions in different duty stations under conditions established in ST/AI/2023/3 on Mobility, as may be amended or revised.
This condition of service applies to all position specific job openings and does not apply to temporary positions. Applicants are urged to carefully follow all instructions available in the online recruitment platform, inspira, and to refer to the Applicant Guide by clicking on “Manuals” in the “Help” tile of the inspira account-holder homepage.
The evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations including the Charter of the United Nations, resolutions of the General Assembly, the Staff Regulations and Rules, administrative issuances and guidelines. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications according to the instructions provided in inspira to be considered for the current job opening.
No amendment, addition, deletion, revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in the application. All external candidates recruited in accordance with section 2.2
(a) of ST/AI/2025/3 for a fixed term appointment without limitation and all external candidates recruited in accordance with section 2.2.
(c) of ST/AI/2025/3 for a fixed term appointment limited to the entity are subject to an initial probationary period of one year under a fixed-term appointment. Job openings advertised on the Careers Portal will be removed at 11:59 p.m. (New York time) on the deadline date.