The UNICEF UNV Youth on the Move Programme offers a unique opportunity for young refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants to gain real work experience. This 12-month paid position with UNICEF is designed for people between the ages of 20 and 32 who often face obstacles in finding internships or jobs because of their background.
This program aims to open doors for young people who may not have had access to higher education or formal work opportunities. With positions available in different countries, participants can build valuable skills while making a positive impact.
In this article, we’ll explore the details of the UNICEF UNV Youth on the Move Programme, including eligibility, available roles, and how to apply. Keep reading to learn how this initiative helps break barriers for displaced youth looking to grow their careers.
About the UNICEF UNV Youth Programme
This program follows the successful Youth on the Move Fellowship Pilot Programme, which UNICEF launched in partnership with the Migration Youth and Children Platform. Between October 2022 and June 2024, 23 young people from various displaced backgrounds worked with UNICEF teams around the world. This pilot project helped pave the way for the current initiative. Which seeks to expand opportunities for youth facing obstacles due to their migration or displacement experiences.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants of the UNICEF UNV Youth Programme
To qualify for the Youth on the Move Programme, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be between 20 and 32 years old.
- Be a refugee, asylum seeker, IDP, or migrant.
- Face difficulties accessing education or job opportunities because of their migration or displacement.
- Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
For candidates who cannot upload a passport, alternative documents can be submitted. These may include government-issued papers, UN agency documents, or proof of refugee, asylum seeker, or IDP status.
Focus on Skills, No Degree Required
The program specifically targets young people who have not had access to higher education. It aims to give opportunities to those who face challenges getting into paid jobs. Especially due to their legal or financial situation. This means that candidates with university degrees or those currently enrolled in higher education are not the focus of this initiative.
Available Positions and Application Process of the UNICEF UNV Youth Programme
If you’re interested in applying, the program offers roles across different countries. Here are a few examples of available positions:
- Disability Inclusion and Youth Participation Assistant in Cambodia
- Emergency/Resilience Coordination Associate in Côte d’Ivoire
- Community Facilitator in Mozambique
- Child Protection Associate in Somalia
- Humanitarian Information Management Assistant in Thailand
To apply, visit UNV’s Unified Volunteer Platform, where positions are listed. Applicants can find resources on how to register their profile in the platform’s Explore section.
Upcoming Information Sessions
For those seeking more details, UNICEF will hold Zoom information sessions on 24 and 25 September 2024. You can register for these sessions through the provided links.
Partner Nomination Process for Eligible Candidates
Youth organizations, NGOs, and other civil society groups can also nominate candidates for the program. Partners who wish to nominate someone can do so through an online form. The Nomination Process Information Pack provides step-by-step details. While the Dissemination Pack offers materials to help organizations share news about the program.
Conclusion of the UNICEF UNV Youth Programme
Many young refugees and migrants have talent and drive but lack access to opportunities. Because of legal, financial, or administrative barriers. While organizations like UNICEF offer internships and entry-level job. These positions are often out of reach for youth on the move. The UNICEF UNV Youth on the Move Programme aims to break these barriers and provide young people with a fair chance to gain work experience and build their future.
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