If you want to work for UNDP and are looking for vacancies on undpjobs.net, then you first need to know everything about this organization. This information is useful for you both at the application stage and at the interview. Or maybe UNDP is not at all for you, and you do not share all of its missions.
In this article, you will receive detailed, accessible and interesting information about UNDP, which will help you at all stages of employment. At the end of the article you will find a selection of top jobs in this organization.
The information that you learn from this article may need you at the interview stage. This is the basis, without which it’s not worth starting a job search at UNDP. So, let's start?
When and how was UNDP created?
UNDP was established in 1965 as a result of the merger of the United Nations Special Fund, established in 1958, and the Expanded Program of Technical Assistance, founded in 1949.
In how many countries does UNDP already work? In what areas does it operate?
UNDP operates in 177 countries and territories and works in three main areas: (1) sustainable development, (2) democratic governance and peacebuilding, (3) climate and disaster resilience.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) stands as a pivotal pillar within the United Nations system, dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and encouraging sustainable development worldwide. As the UN's global development network, UNDP offers expert advice, training, and financial support to developing countries, with a focus on building national capabilities to achieve sustainable growth. Here's all you should know about UNDP, its mission, structure, key areas of work, and how it operates globally.
UNDP's mission is to help countries achieve sustainable development by eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, accelerating structural transformations for sustainable development, and building resilience to crises and shocks. Its work is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.
UNDP operates in about 170 countries and territories, providing a global network aimed at policy development, capacity building, and financial assistance. It is overseen by an Executive Board, responsible for ensuring that UNDP carries out its work effectively, efficiently, and in accordance with the guidance of the United Nations General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
UNDP focuses on three main areas to achieve its mission:
UNDP has played a crucial role in supporting countries' development efforts, including poverty reduction, democratic governance, prevention and recovery from crises, and environmental management. It has facilitated access to justice for millions worldwide, contributed to the fight against climate change, and helped build resilient communities.
Despite its achievements, UNDP faces challenges such as navigating political complexities in the countries it operates, ensuring sustainable funding, and adapting to emerging global challenges like pandemics and climate change. It has also faced criticism over the years regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of its programs, prompting ongoing efforts to enhance transparency, accountability, and results-oriented approaches.
UNDP's comprehensive approach to development, encompassing economic, social, and environmental dimensions, positions it uniquely to address the complex challenges of our time. By focusing on partnerships, local capacity building, and sustainable development, UNDP continues to play a vital role in advancing the global agenda for a better world. Its efforts towards achieving the SDGs underscore its commitment to a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Administrator
At the international level, UNDP is headed by an Administrator, whose rank is identical to that of the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. The UNDP Administrator is appointed by the Secretary-General and approved by the United Nations General Assembly for a term of four years. Since 2017, Achim Steiner has been the UNDP Administrator.
Executive Board
The Executive Council consists of representatives of 36 ratifying countries and meets annually for three sessions - one annual and two regular.
Members of the Executive Council are elected annually by the UN Economic and Social Council for a three-year term.
Since 1994, all decisions of the UNDP Executive Board have always been taken by consensus.
United Nations Development Investment Fund
At the international level, UNDP is also represented by the United Nations Development Investment Fund, which since 1966 has been assisting developing countries.
Global Policy Centers
The UNDP Global Policy Centers contribute to the international advisory functions of the Program, providing it with research support in the following areas:
There are six Global Policy Centers in the UNDP system:
Everyone who are passionate about world development and want to make a difference can find work at UNDP.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, UNDP provides various exciting opportunities for: