Disadvantages of Volunteering at the United Nations

The United Nations (UN) is a global entity that plays a crucial role in various aspects of international affairs, from humanitarian aid to peacekeeping. Volunteering with the UN can be an enriching experience, offering a unique and rewarding opportunity to contribute to global causes. However, there are several challenges and disadvantages that volunteers might face. This article explores some of the key disadvantages of volunteering at the UN, particularly focusing on challenges in the job market and the perception of volunteers.

Vocational Growth and Expert Recognition

One of the primary motivations for volunteering at the UN is the chance to work with highly skilled professionals. However, the very nature of the UN's volunteer program presents challenges in terms of professional reputation and career progression. Even those with extensive expertise, such as medical doctors, IT specialists, and marketing experts, may face difficulties in being recognized as equal professionals in the eyes of their colleagues or potential employers.

Many UN volunteers are placed in roles that are crucial to the organization's operations. Despite their expertise, they may be subject to a perception that their volunteer status undermines their qualifications. Medical doctors, for instance, might be overlooked for essential medical roles in stressful or critical environments due to this perception. Similarly, IT managers could face delays or rejections in implementing important technological advancements because of the perceived temporary nature of their roles.

Job Security and Perceived Expertise

A significant disadvantage is the issue of long-term job security. The nature of UN volunteer roles often implies a temporary assignment, which can create uncertainty about future career prospects. This can be particularly problematic in the highly competitive job market, where many employers prefer to hire individuals with UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) contracts or other more permanent positions. The transient nature of volunteer assignments may not align with the expectations of stability and reliability that many employers seek for long-term positions.

In addition, even when UN volunteers perform expert-level work, there can be a reluctance to acknowledge their full value. This is exacerbated by the fact that many UN volunteer positions are not accompanied by a full package of benefits or job security measures that are typically associated with permanent or contractual positions. As a result, these individuals may be perceived as less committed or less valuable to the organization in the long term.

Adjusting to Life Post-UN

The transition from working at the UN to re-entering the job market can be challenging. The unique skills and experiences gained while volunteering with the UN can be invaluable, but they may not translate easily into the domestic job market. Employers often have specific requirements and preferences that can make it difficult for volunteers to find jobs that fully utilize their expertise and international experience.

Much of the work done by UN volunteers can be highly specialized and situated within the unique context of the UN's global operations. This expertise, while impressive, may require significant effort to translate into a language and framework that is understandable and valuable to national employers. Additionally, the skills acquired in multicultural and multi-disciplinary environments might not align perfectly with the expectations of traditional roles in the home country.

Furthermore, the perception that UN volunteers may be less reliable or less committed to long-term career paths can affect their ability to secure positions in the home country. Many employers might be cautious about hiring individuals who have previously held casual or temporary positions, especially without the tangible evidence of a permanent job record.

Conclusion

The decision to volunteer at the United Nations is a significant one, offering unique opportunities and experiences. However, it is important for volunteers to be prepared for the challenges they might face, particularly in the realm of career development and job security. Understanding these challenges can help individuals to navigate the job market more effectively and utilize their international experience to the fullest extent possible. Whether through further education, targeted networking, or seeking positions that value international volunteer work, UN volunteers can often find ways to leverage their experiences for meaningful careers and a rewarding future.