Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Program – United Nations Young Professionals Internship Funded by Belgium

The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Program is a prestigious initiative designed to help young professionals gain hands-on experience in international diplomacy, development, and cooperation. Funded by Belgium, the program offers a unique opportunity for highly motivated graduates to work within United Nations organizations, funds, programs, and offices that finance or implement development projects worldwide.

This JPO internship provides early-career professionals with exposure to program design, execution, monitoring, and evaluation while fostering skills in international relations, humanitarian work, and global governance. Participants work under experienced senior staff and benefit from structured mentorship, practical experience, and a pathway to future careers in international organizations.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply

The JPO program primarily targets candidates of Belgian nationality, with a limited number of positions open to applicants from partner countries. Eligibility criteria are as follows:

Academic and Professional Requirements

• Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent.

• A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience is required.

• Applicants must be 32 years or younger as of December 31 of the application year.

Language and Skills

• Excellent proficiency in English and French, the official working languages of the UN, is essential.

• Strong analytical, research, communication, and organizational skills relevant to development or humanitarian programs.

International Scope

• Positions are offered at UN agencies, funds, and programs in one of 14 partner countries of Belgian Development Cooperation or at regional/headquarters offices.

• Funded JPO posts are currently available in organizations such as UNDP, UNICEF, WFP, FAO, UNHCR, WHO, UNRWA, ILO, UNFPA, UNAIDS, UN Women, UNEP, IOM, OHCHR, OCHA, OSRSG-CAAC, OSRSG-SVC, and the UN Chief Executives Board (CEB).

Specific Open Positions (Belgium-funded JPOs)

1. Human Rights – OHCHR, Geneva, Switzerland

   • Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures, Right to Development Division, Rule of Law, Equality, and Non-Discrimination Branch.

   • Deadline: 31 December 2025 (6 p.m. EST, New York).

2. Monitoring and Evaluation – WFP, Bamako, Mali

   • Research, Analysis, and Monitoring (RAM) Unit.

   • Deadline: 18 January 2026 (23:59 GMT, Bamako).

Program Details: Structure, Duration, and Benefits

Internship Structure

• JPOs are fully integrated into the daily operations of their assigned UN organization.

• Responsibilities include program design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, alongside strategic policy input.

• Each JPO works under the guidance of a senior staff member to ensure skill development and professional growth.

Contract and Compensation

• The standard JPO contract is for one year, with the possibility of renewal up to three years based on performance.

• JPOs enjoy international staff status, including salaries in USD, pension contributions, and social security benefits.

• The Belgian government contributes to the UN pension system, and all salaries comply with UN remuneration guidelines.

Professional Development Benefits

• Hands-on exposure to international development, humanitarian response, human rights, and multilateral governance.

• Structured mentorship and skill-building for future leadership roles in international organizations.

• Networking opportunities across UN agencies and with other young professionals.

Application Process

How to Apply

• Applications must be submitted during the designated application period through the respective UN organization’s online portal.

• Late submissions will not be considered.

• Applicants are required to submit a Personal History Form (CV), Cover Letter, academic diplomas, work certificates, and proof of nationality.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Carefully review selection criteria and address them clearly in your cover letter.

• Highlight relevant professional experience with concrete examples.

• Use keywords from the vacancy description, making them bold in your application.

• Avoid vague statements, abbreviations, or acronyms.

• Ensure accuracy of dates, titles, and other information.

Selection Procedure

• Initial screening is based on CV and cover letter.

• Shortlisted candidates are interviewed online.

• Final selections are made by the hiring organization in consultation with Belgian Development Cooperation priorities.

Important Dates

Note: Additional JPO positions will be posted depending on available funding and organizational needs. Interested candidates can subscribe to notifications for updates.

Contract Terms and Employment Conditions

• Duration: 1 year (renewable up to 3 years).

• Status: International UN staff.

• Salary: Paid in USD, based on UN salary scales.

• Benefits: Pension contribution, social security, and professional development opportunities.

• Career Advancement: Experience as a JPO significantly enhances prospects for future roles in UN agencies and international organizations.

Why Apply to the Junior Professional Officer Program

The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Program is a career-defining opportunity for young professionals seeking hands-on experience in international development, human rights, and diplomacy. Funded by Belgium and implemented through leading UN organizations, the program offers structured mentorship, competitive remuneration, and exposure to real-world projects. By participating, young professionals enhance their skills, build international networks, and gain a solid foundation for a career in global governance and multilateral cooperation.

Application Portal

For more opportunities visit http://opportunitiesforyouth.org