UNV

2025 Sponsored UN Volunteer Assignment in Türkiye at UNICEF People & Culture Policy Specialist

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Deadline to Apply: 24 September 2025
Location: Istanbul, Türkiye
Start Date: 2 November 2025
Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)

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✨ About the Assignment

UNICEF is seeking an International UN Volunteer People & Culture Policy Specialist to support its People & Culture team in Istanbul. This unique opportunity allows you to contribute to shaping UNICEF’s Human Resources framework while being part of a global mission to protect children’s rights and promote sustainable development.

This assignment falls under SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals and offers a chance to influence key HR policy directions that strengthen UNICEF’s organizational effectiveness.

📝 Key Responsibilities

As the People & Culture Policy Specialist, you will:

Review & update HR policies: Examine UNICEF’s comprehensive HR library (115 documents) and identify gaps or misalignments with the current UNICEF Regulatory Framework.
Draft revised HR policies & procedures: Ensure alignment, consistency, and clarity while adapting to UNICEF’s regulatory templates.
Engage with stakeholders: Work closely with UNICEF leadership, regional HR focal points, the Legal Office, and other key stakeholders.
Support exception management system: Help design and implement a robust system for managing HR policy exceptions.
Other duties as required by the UNICEF DPC Policy team.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Age: 18 – 80 (International UN Volunteer Specialist category)
Nationality: Must be a national of a country other than Türkiye

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Law, International Relations, Business, Public Administration, or related field.

Experience:

Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in HR policy, administrative law, or regulatory frameworks.
Experience in international organizations (UN or similar) is an advantage.

Languages:

Fluent English (required).

Competencies & Values:

Care, Trust, Integrity, Respect, Accountability, Sustainability
Adaptability, Creativity, Decision-making, Planning, Professionalism, Self-management

💼 Benefits & Allowances

UNV assignments are volunteer roles, not employment, but come with a comprehensive support package:

Estimated Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA): ~USD 2,689/month
Entry lump sum: USD 4,000
Family allowance, $250 per month for one dependent. $450 per month for two or more dependents
Exit allowance: USD 225/month (on completion)
Insurance coverage: Medical, dental, life, disability (Cigna Private Insurance)
Annual leave: 2.5 days/month
Learning opportunities: Access to UN & UNV platforms and networks

🌟 Why Volunteer with UNICEF?

Volunteering with UNICEF is not just about contributing your skills — it’s about becoming part of a global movement for peace, development, and humanitarian aid. You’ll play a direct role in creating policies that support UNICEF staff worldwide while living in Istanbul, a vibrant cultural and historical hub.

📌 Important Notes

UNICEF provides reasonable accommodation for volunteers with disabilities.
No fees are charged for UNV applications or recruitment processes.

🔗 How to Apply

Applications close 24 September 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to support UNICEF’s mission while gaining international HR policy experience in Türkiye.

👉 Apply Now via UNV Portal

Apply