UnifiedConditions ofServicefor UN Volunteers
I
Effective 1 October 2021

﻿

II

﻿

UnifiedConditions ofServicefor UN Volunteers

III

﻿

Front: A UN Volunteer plays with children while working with the survivors of the 2016
earthquake in Ecuador (Juan Diego Pérez Arias, UNV 2016).

Effective 1 October 2021, this document replaces prior versions of the National UN
Volunteers Conditions of Service and International UN Volunteers Conditions ofService of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme.
Copyright © 2021
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme
We thank our UN Online Volunteer Vinh Pragfor his design of this publication.

IV﻿

Table of Contents
I.

Overall Guidelines

6

II.

UNV Code of Conduct

8

III.

Definitions

12

IV.

Recognition of Dependents

18

V.

Work Management

22

VI.

Appointment as a UN Volunteer

24

VII.

Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

27

VIII.

Leave Entitlements

42

IX.

Completion of Assignment

48

X.

Insurance and Duty of Care

51

XI.

Security

56

XII.

Volunteer Reporting

59

XIII.

Separation from the UN Volunteer assignment

60

XIV.

Final Separation 

65

XV.

Disciplinary Investigations and Review Process

66

XVI.

Administrative Leave from Service

71

XVII.

Recourse Procedures, Dispute Resolution

73

XVIII. Special Programme Initiatives

78

ANNEXES80
A-0I: Special Measures for Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse

81

A-02:85
Protection against Retaliation for Reporting Misconduct and for
Cooperating with Duly Authorized Audits or Investigations
A-03:90
Guidelines for the Claims Panel for Loss of or Damage to Personal
Property due to Emergency Situations
A-04:93
Guidelines on Security Relocation/Evaluation
A-05:96
Eligibility, Benefits & Entitlements Table for Categories of UN VolunteersVI. Overall Guidelines

I. Overall
Guidelines
1. SCOPE AND PURPOSEThe United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme contributes to peace anddevelopment through volunteerism worldwide. We provide qualified, highly
motivated UN Volunteers to support the work of the United Nations system, toachieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UNV is administered by
the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and reports to the UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Board.
In all assignments, UN Volunteers promote volunteerism through their actions
and conduct. The Conditions of Service (COS) form the basis of the policies
and rules that regulate the UN Volunteer assignment. The COS is amended
periodically by UNV. This COS unifies and supersedes prior versions of thenational and international UN Volunteer Conditions of Service.
The provisions of the COS apply to all individuals recruited as UN Volunteers.
Separate terms and policies have been established for other initiatives
administered by UNV (e.g. Online Volunteers) that fall outside of the scope of
this document.

2. LEGAL STATUS OF UN VOLUNTEERSUN Volunteers are not UN staff members. They are subject to neither the UN
Staff Regulations and Staff Rules nor to the pay, benefits, or other conditions
contained therein. They are nevertheless UN personnel and are governed bythis document, including any amendments that may result from the revisionof the COS in the future. The terms of service are defined in the Description of
Assignment and UN Volunteer Contract issued in each case.

3. PRIVILEGES AND IMMUNITIESUnder the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations(the General Convention), UN officials are granted certain privileges and6

I. Overall Guidelines

immunities in the performance of their functions, including, for example,
immunity from legal process, but only in respect to words spoken or acts
performed in the context of their official functions. These privileges andimmunities belong to the United Nations, not to the individual, and can only be
waived by the United Nations Secretary-General.
Depending on the UN entities to which they are assigned, international UN
Volunteers may be afforded privileges and immunities by the arrangements
agreed between these entities and the host governments concerned, which aresimilar to those granted to officials under the General Convention:i.

UN Volunteers serving with UNDP are afforded privileges and immunities
in accordance with the prevailing UNDP Standard Basic AssistanceAgreements (SBAA) with the host governments.

ii. UN Volunteers serving with other UN Funds and Programmes enjoy
privileges and immunities insofar as the UN Host Entity’s agreement withthe government provides.
iii. UN Volunteers serving in UN missions are generally afforded privileges andimmunities under Status of Mission Agreements (SOMAs) and Status ofForces Agreements (SOFAs).
In addition, UN Volunteers may be covered by the applicable United Nations
Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF), United Nations Sustainable
Development Cooperation Framework (UNSCDF), or relevant exchanges ofletters between UNV and the host government.
National UN Volunteers generally do not enjoy privileges and immunities
but may be afforded privileges and immunities in certain circumstances. The
determination of whether privileges and immunities apply in an individual caseis made by the United Nations Secretary-General.
UNV seeks to ensure UN Volunteers enjoy such protections as are necessary
for the independent performance of their functions on behalf of the United
Nations. Privileges and immunities apply in the interest of the United Nations
and not for the personal benefits of the individuals themselves.
Where the issue of privileges and immunities is disputed in connection witha UN Volunteer, the Host Entity will consult with relevant UN Offices on theappropriate resolution with the host government.

7II. UNV Code of Conduct

II. UNV Code of
Conduct
In accordance with the ideals of voluntary service, UN Volunteers will be guided
by the motivation to devote their knowledge and abilities without regard to
financial remuneration. Volunteerism, such as for the Sustainable Development
Goals, is encouraged outside of the formal work setting as part of the voluntary
nature of the assignment and where allowed by local law.
The following UNV Code of Conduct applies to all persons who serve as UN
Volunteers. In addition, UN Volunteers are required to abide by any applicable
Host Entity-specific regulations, policies, or administrative issuances governing
the conduct of personnel. Failure of a UN Volunteer to adhere to the principles
and values of the Charter of the United Nations, the UN Volunteer Conditionsof Service, or other relevant administrative issuances by UNV or the Host Entity
may constitute misconduct, wherever it occurs and whether or not the UN
Volunteer was on duty.

1. RESPECT FOR THE PRINCIPLES OF THE UN CHARTERa.

UN Volunteers must uphold, respect, and be loyal to the principles set out in
the Charter of the United Nations, including respect for fundamental humanrights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, and in the equal rights
of all people. Consequently, UN Volunteers must show respect for all persons
equally and shall not discriminate against individuals or groups of individuals.
Specifically, UN Volunteers must show respect for all persons equally without
distinction whatsoever based on race, gender, religion, color, national or
ethnic origin, language, sexual orientation, disability, age, socio-economic
status, political conviction, or any other distinguishing feature. Any form of
discrimination, workplace or sexual harassment, abuse of authority, assault, or
threat is prohibited.

2. INTEGRITY, INDEPENDENCE, AND IMPARTIALITYa.

UN Volunteers must ensure that they undertake their duties in the interestsof the United Nations. UN Volunteers must uphold and promote the highest

8II. UNV Code of Conduct

standards of efficiency, competency, and integrity, ethical and professional
conduct, as well as values inherent in volunteerism, such as commitment,
engagement, and solidarity. The concept of integrity includes, but is not limited
to, probity, impartiality, fairness, honesty, and truthfulness in all matters affecting
their work and status.
b.

Although UN Volunteers are not expected to relinquish national sentiments orpolitical and religious convictions, they may not engage in any activity that may
be inconsistent with the independence and impartiality required of persons
affiliated with the United Nations. UN Volunteers must avoid any action andany public statement which may reflect negatively on the United Nations or the
integrity, independence, and impartiality of the United Nations. UN Volunteers
may not speak or write publicly on any matter related to UN activities unlessspecifically authorized to do so by UNV or the Host Entity.

c.

UN Volunteers must neither seek nor accept instructions from any government
or any other source external to the UN system, except as authorized by UNV or
the Host Entity. Unless specifically authorized by UNV or the Host Entity, UN
Volunteers must not communicate to any government, entity, person, or any
other source any information known to them by reason of their function for theUnited Nations, which the UN Volunteer knows or ought to have known has notbeen made public. These obligations do not end upon separation from the UN
Volunteer assignment. UN Volunteers shall not, unless authorized by UNV or the
Host Entity, accept any honor, decoration, favor, gift, or remuneration from any
government or non-governmental source for activities carried out during theirofficial functions.

3. PRIVATE LEGAL OBLIGATIONSa.

UN Volunteers must honor their private legal obligations. Failure to do so may
amount to misconduct. The privileges and immunities of the United Nations
provide no excuse for UN Volunteers to fail to comply with local laws and theirprivate legal obligations. Unlawful acts (e.g. theft, fraud, smuggling, possession
or sale of illegal substances or objects, driving under the influence of drugs or
alcohol, etc.) are prohibited.

4. SPECIFIC INSTANCES OF PROHIBITED CONDUCTa.

Any form of sexual exploitation and abuse is prohibited. Sexual activity withchildren (persons under the age of 18) is prohibited regardless of the age ofmajority or the age of consent locally, except where a UN Volunteer is legallymarried to a person who is under the age of 18 but over the age of majority

9II. UNV Code of Conduct

UN Volunteer Alaa Abu Ramadan serves with the UN Office for the Coordination of
Humanitarian Affairs in the Gaza Strip (UNV, 2018).
or consent in his or her country of citizenship. Mistaken belief in the age of achild is not a defense. The exchange of money, employment, goods, or services
for sex, including sexual favors or other forms of humiliating, degrading, or
exploitative behavior, is prohibited. UN Volunteers are obliged to create andmaintain an environment that prevents sexual exploitation and sexual abuse.
The UN Secretary-General Bulletin on Special Measures for Protection from
Sexual Abuse and Exploitation ST/SGB/2003/13, as updated from time to time,
will apply to UN Volunteers. (see Annex 01)b.

UN Volunteers must not engage in any form of harassment, including sexual
harassment, whether such conduct is intentional or through the perpetuationof an environment where such conditions are reasonably considered to occur.
This prohibition applies equally within the workplace and outside it.

c.

UN Volunteers must not engage in any form of abuse of authority. The use of
authority or influence, or representation thereof, in relation to functions or status
with the UN to improperly coerce others to act or fail to act is forbidden. This
prohibition applies equally within the workplace and outside it.

d.

UN Volunteers shall not use their function for the United Nations or knowledge
obtained therefrom for the private benefit of themselves or others, or to
the detriment of others. Misuse of office, misrepresentation, forgery, false10II. UNV Code of Conduct

certification, breach of confidentiality, and abuse of United Nations privileges
and immunities are prohibited.
e.

UN Volunteers must report any misconduct to the officials whose responsibility
it is to take appropriate action. They must cooperate with any duly authorized
audits and investigations. They may not take retaliatory action against orinterfere with a complainant or an investigation participant or take any otheraction in violation of the applicable Host Entity’s policy or administrativeissuance on the protections against retaliation and reporting of misconduct. In
addition, making false accusations and disseminating false rumors is prohibited.
(see Annex 02 for Whistleblower Protection)

5. OUTSIDE ACTIVITIESa.

UN Volunteers’ outside activities must not detract in any way from their formal
work assignments, be contrary to the purposes or principles of the UN, or aviolation of local law. UN Volunteers must not engage in any activity that is
detrimental to the United Nations or UNV. Any outside activity must also be
consistent with the UN Volunteer’s visa status.

b.

UN Volunteers must obtain authorization from UNV or the Host Entity for any
outside activity, employment, business, voluntary activity, office, or membershipin governmental and non-governmental bodies, whether remunerated or not,including those that commenced prior to their UN Volunteer assignment. The
appropriateness of the outside activity will be determined by the Resident
Representative or Head of Office of the Host Entity in accordance withapplicable Ethics Office guidance, as necessary. UN Volunteers may not, under
any circumstances, accept any supplementary payment from a government
or any other source, outside of agreements that UNV has explicitly entered intowith specific governments.

6. STANDARDS OF CARE AND FIDUCIARY OBLIGATIONSa.

UN Volunteers must act in good faith and exercise due care, diligence, andintegrity in performing their duties for the United Nations. UN Volunteers
must discharge their functions with due care for their fiduciary obligations
and must act in a manner to protect the Host Entity and UNV, as well as theirassets, from loss, damage, misuse, theft, and waste. Misuse or mishandling of
official property, assets, equipment, or files, including electronic files or data, isprohibited.

11III. Definitions

III. Definitions
1.

UN Volunteer Contract: The UN Volunteer Contract is the legally-binding
agreement between the UN Volunteer and UNV, which defines the rights andresponsibilities of both the UN Volunteer and UNV. The UN Volunteer Conditionsof Service and the Description of Assignment are integrated with the UN
Volunteer Contract.

2.

Type: Type refers to the overall group to which a UN Volunteer belongs. There
are only two UN Volunteer types: national and international. The types aremutually exclusive, and a UN Volunteer cannot be both simultaneously anational UN Volunteer and an international UN Volunteer. The type of the UN
Volunteer is indicated in the Description of Assignment.

3.

Category: Category refers to the categories within each type (i.e. Community,
University, Youth, Specialist, Expert, etc.), which relate to the level of functions
the UN Volunteer is to perform based on individual qualifications, including, but
not limited to, age, education, and experience. The category of the UN Volunteer
is indicated in the Description of Assignment.

4.

International UN Volunteer is a UN Volunteer whose duty station, as specified
in the Description of Assignment, is not a country for which they holdnationality. An individual who holds the nationality of the country in which their
duty station is located cannot serve as an international UN Volunteer in thatcountry.*5.

National UN Volunteer is a UN Volunteer who is a national, resident, refugee, orstateless individual, who is physically present in the country in which the duty
station, as specified in the Description of Assignment, is located, and whose
status as a refugee, or stateless individual relates to the country of assignment.
An individual who is a national, resident, refugee, or stateless individual in the
country in which their duty station is located cannot† serve as an international
UN Volunteer in that country.

6.

Commencement of Service: The Commencement of Service date is the dateon which the selected candidate begins their official duties. Where official travel* Unless permitted under UNV specific Special Programme Initiatives, promulgated volunteer policies,
waivers, or other administrative instructions.
†

Idem.

12

III. Definitions

to the duty station is authorized, the Commencement of Service date is definedas the start date of said travel on the date, route, and modality authorized by
UNV. The Commencement of Service date will be set out in the UN Volunteer
Contract.
7.

Description of Assignment: The Description of Assignment (DOA) identifies thetype, category, and tasks the UN Volunteer is to perform during their volunteer
assignment, the duty station for their assignment, and the Host Entity to which
the UN Volunteer has been assigned. The Description of Assignment is an
integral part of the UN Volunteer Contract.

8.

Reassignment: For a change to a UN Volunteer assignment to constitute a
reassignment, the UN Volunteer must be:a. Remaining in the same UN Volunteer category and type;b. Changing their duty station within the same country or mission area for aperiod of more than three (3) months; andc. Remaining with the same Host Entity.
Changes to core functions can occur as part of a reassignment and will notconstitute a new assignment. Reassignments do not require the issuanceof a new UN Volunteer Contract, but the UN Volunteer must consent to thereassignment. Funds for travel and settling-in will be provided in cases ofreassignment. See Annex 05 for allowances. Evacuations do not constitute a
reassignment.

9.

New UN Volunteer Assignment: The following constitute a new UN Volunteer
assignment:a. A UN Volunteer changes their duty station outside the country or mission
area; orb. A UN Volunteer is assigned to a different host entity; orc. A UN Volunteer changes type (national/international) or category(Community/University/Youth/Expert/Specialist etc.).
A new UN Volunteer assignment requires the issuance of a new UN Volunteer
Contract. The terms of a new assignment shall be fully applicable without regard
to any prior service as a UN Volunteer under a prior assignment. The extension
or renewal of a UN Volunteer Contract without any change to the UN Volunteer
assignment is not a new assignment, even if such extension or renewal requires

13III. Definitions

the signature of a new contract. The UN Volunteer must consent to a new
assignment. Evacuations do not constitute a new assignment.
10.

Other changes: Other changes to a UN Volunteer assignment that do not meetthe criteria of a reassignment or a new assignment or which are a result of the
security evacuation of a UN Volunteer do not require the UN Volunteer’s consent
nor the issuance of a new UN Volunteer Contract.

11.

Period of Assignment: The period of assignment is the period under which
a UN Volunteer served for one or a series of UN Volunteer Contracts without
undertaking a new volunteer assignment (as defined above). Absent the needfor an evacuation, the period of assignment will be in the same country ofassignment, with the same or similar tasks for one Host Entity. The period ofassignment begins at the Commencement of Service date specified in theinitial UN Volunteer Contract and ends with the separation from service under
the terms of the UNV COS.

12.

Maximum Service Periods: The maximum service period is the maximum
period in which an individual may serve as a UN Volunteer either cumulatively
or under each type (national or international). No person can serve more than acumulative total of eight (8) years in a lifetime as a UN Volunteer and no person
can serve more than a cumulative total of four (4) years in a lifetime as either anational or an international UN Volunteer.

13.

Age criteria for UN Volunteers: UN Volunteers must be a minimum of 18 yearsof age at the time of the commencement of the assignment. In addition, UNV
may establish higher age criteria for certain categories on organizational policy
groups or set maximum age limits in cases where there is life insurance policy
limitation or age related safety and security risks.

14.

Host Entity: The Host Entity is the UN entity that has requested the services of
a UN Volunteer. UN Volunteers are assigned to activities supported by the Host
Agency during the UN Volunteer assignment.

15.

Nationality: Nationality is the nationality legally held by the UN Volunteer ina UN-recognized Member State. UNV recognizes only one nationality of a UN
Volunteer for personal status and entitlement purposes. If a UN Volunteer
possesses more than one nationality or is considered stateless as determinedby the UN, the recognized nationality of the individual for the purposes of
their UN Volunteer assignment will be based on the nationality with which theindividual, in the view of the UNV Executive Coordinator or designate, is mostclosely associated. If an individual has previously served with a UN entity as a14

III. Definitions

staff member, UNV will recognize the primary nationality under which he or she
was registered for the staff assignment, unless, in the view of the UNV Executive
Coordinator or designate, the UN Volunteer holds a closer association withanother nationality.
16.

Place of Recruitment: The Place of Recruitment is the location provided by
the UN Volunteer candidate to UNV at the time the candidate is selected for a
UN Volunteer assignment from which the UN Volunteer is expected to travel
to undertake his or her assignment. If the UN Volunteer is not at the Place ofRecruitment at the commencement of assignment or travel to the assignment,
UNV may, at its discretion, change the Place of Recruitment.

17.

Domicile: The domicile is the location provided by the UN Volunteer candidate
to UNV at the time the candidate is selected for a UN Volunteer assignment,
where the UN Volunteer holds his or her permanent principal home and towhich the UN Volunteer will return upon completion of service. The domicile
may not necessarily be the same location as the Place of Recruitment.

18.

Children: Children are defined as biological children, adopted children, andstepchildren, who are not married or not in a recognized partnership or union,
and are under the age of 21 at the date of the Commencement of Service.

19.

Spouse or partner: UNV will recognize only one spouse or partner, including
those who are part of a recognized partnership or union.

20. Recognized primary dependents: Recognized primary dependents are
immediate family members meeting one of the following criteria: recognized
spouses, recognized partners, or recognized union, or children as defined above.
Recognized primary dependents are separated into two sub-categories for UNV
purposes: primary family unit (PFU) and additional primary dependents.
21.

Primary Family Unit: The primary family unit (PFU) comprises recognizedprimary dependents and is limited to either one recognized spouse or partner,
and up to two children; or, in the absence of a specified spouse or partner,
including those in a recognized union, up to three children. It is the UN
Volunteer’s discretion to choose which dependents they wish to nominate for
the PFU.

22. Additional primary dependents: Additional primary dependents are additionalchildren, as defined above, and either the recognized spouse or partner who
is not nominated to be part of the PFU, or other individuals in a recognizedconjugal relationship with the UN Volunteer, but who are not the recognized15

III. Definitions

spouse or partner. All children, who are unmarried, not in a recognizedpartnership or union, or under the age of 21, who are accompanying the UN
Volunteer to the duty station and who are not already nominated as PFU
member, will be additional primary dependents.
23. UNV Headquarters: UNV Headquarters is the central administration of UNV,
located in Bonn, Germany.
24. Administering Office: The Administering Office may refer to either UNV
Headquarters, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country
Office, the UNV Regional Office, the UNV Field Unit located in the UNDPCountry Office, or the UNV Field Unit located in UN Peace Operations or other
UN Mission. The Administering Office is distinct from the UN Host Entity.
25. UNDP Resident Representative (UNDP RR): The UNDP Resident
Representative is the accredited senior UNDP official in the programme
country. The UNDP Resident Representative represents UNV at the country
level.
26. UNDP Country Office (UNDP CO): The UNDP Country Office is the UNDP
representation in a given country. In most cases, UNV’s activities areadministered by the UNDP Country Office.
27. UNV Field Unit (UNV FU): The UNV Field Unit is the representative entityof UNV in the field that manages various in-country functions on behalf of
UNV, including UN Volunteer assignments. It is normally headed by a UNV
Programme Analyst located in the UNDP Country Office or a ProgrammeManager within a UN Peace Operation or other UN Mission.
28. Discrimination: Discrimination is any unfair treatment or arbitrary distinction
based on a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin,sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or otherstatus. Discrimination may be an isolated event affecting one person or a groupof persons similarly situated, or may manifest itself through harassment orabuse of authority.
29. Harassment: Harassment is any improper and unwelcome conduct thathas caused, or that might reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause,
offence or humiliation. Harassment may be present in the form of words,
gestures, electronic communication or other actions that annoy, alarm, abuse,demean, intimidate, belittle, or cause personal humiliation or embarrassment
to another, or cause an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment.

16

III. Definitions

It includes but is not limited to harassment based on any grounds, such as
race, religion, color, creed, ethnic origin, physical attributes, gender identity,
or sexual orientation. Harassment will often consist of a series of incidents,
but it may be brought about by a single incident only. The mere expressionof disagreement, admonishment, criticism or similar action regarding work
performance, conduct or related issues within a supervisory relationship shallnot be considered prohibited conduct.
30. Sexual Harassment: Sexual Harassment is a form of harassment and is any
unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favour, verbal or physical conduct
or gesture of a sexual nature, or any other behaviour of a sexual nature thathas or that might reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause offense
or humiliation. Sexual harassment may result in an intimidating, hostileor offensive environment or is made a condition of employment. Sexual
harassment normally implies a series of incidents. However, a one-time incident
could fall within the definition of sexual harassment if it has an unambiguously
offensive sexual character. Staff members with any gender identity can be either
the injured party or the offender.
31.

Abuse of authority: Abuse of authority is the improper use of a position of
influence, power or authority. This includes situations when the person inquestion uses their influence, power or authority to arbitrarily influence thecareer or employment conditions (including, but not limited to, appointment,
assignment, contract renewal, performance evaluation or promotion) of otherpersonnel. Abuse of authority can include a one-time incident or a series ofincidents. It may also consist of conduct that creates a hostile or offensive work
environment, which includes, but is not limited to, the use of intimidation,
threats, blackmail or coercion.

32. Misconduct: Misconduct is the failure by a UN Volunteer to adhere to theprinciples and values of the Charter of the United Nations, the UN Volunteer
Conditions of Service, or other relevant administrative issuances by UNV or
the Host Entity. Misconduct can be deliberate (an intentional or willful act) or
result from an extreme or aggravated failure to exercise the standard of carethat a reasonable person would have exercised with respect to a reasonably
foreseeable risk (gross negligence) or from complete disregard of a risk which
is likely to cause harm (recklessness). Abetting, concealing, or conspiring in any
form of misconduct, including any act or omission, also constitutes misconduct.

17

IV. Recognition of Dependents

IV. Recognition of
Dependents
1.

UNV recognizes eligible familial relationships of a UN Volunteer for purposesof determination of benefits and entitlements, duty of care protections, andinclusion in the UN Volunteer assignment.

2.

Recognized primary dependents: Recognized primary dependents are
immediate family members meeting one of the following criteria: recognized
spouses or partners (including those who are part of a recognized union), andbiological children, adopted children and stepchildren, who are not marriedor not in a recognized partnership or union and are under the age of 21 (seeDefinitions in Section III). Dependents already claimed by another UN personnel
member cannot also be claimed by a UN Volunteer for purposes of receiving
dependency-based benefits and entitlements. In such cases UNV will review thefacts of the case and will make determination in the interest of the Organization
if any benefit or entitlement should be reduced or amended. Recognizedprimary dependents are separated into two sub-categories for UNV purposes:
primary family unit (PFU) and additional primary dependents.

3.

Recognition of marriage, partnerships, or unions: UNV recognizes
partnerships or civil unions in addition to marriages. UNV Headquarters will
determine whether a marriage, partnership, or union may be recognized for the
purpose of UNV benefits. The validity of a marriage, partnership, or union will be
determined by reference to the competent authority under which the marriage,
partnership, or union has been established, with the determination being madeby reference to the authority and in the manner, which, in the opinion of the
UNV Executive Coordinator or designate, is most appropriate to pronounce onthat status. The UN Volunteer is required to provide UNV with any requested
supporting legal documentation in determining eligible UN dependents.

4.

Recognition of children: For the recognition of children, the UN Volunteer isrequired to submit relevant certificates to formally establish the eligibility ofa child as a recognized primary dependent relationship. UN Volunteers must
demonstrate to the satisfaction of UNV that they have legally establishedprimary parental and financial responsibility for any children claimed asrecognized primary dependent(s). Such documentation may include, in the18

IV. Recognition of Dependents

case of biological children, birth certificates of the children. In the case of
adopted children, certificates of adoption issued by the relevant national
authority, as determined by UNV, and in the case of stepchildren, a certificate
of guardianship issued by the relevant national authority, as determined by
UNV, to the UN Volunteer or the person to whom the UN Volunteer is married
or in a recognized partnership or union with. Such documentation is required
irrespective of whether the children are accompanying the UN Volunteer to theduty station.
Additional documentation may be required to establish custody or guardianshipof the biological, adopted, or stepchild. Such documentation is reviewed by UNV
Headquarters at the time of recruitment. UNV will not recognize any person as adependent who, in its view, does not meet the above requirements. Recognizedprimary dependent children who will reach the age of 21 less than six (6)months after the date of the Commencement of Service, may be consideredpart of the PFU, but will not be eligible for any recognized primary dependents
entitlements, except for family allowance eligibility (see Family Allowance inSection VII.9(g)).
5.

New additions to the PFU are only permitted where the maximum permissible
PFU membership limit has not yet been reached and in cases of:a.

Birth or adoption of a new child, or addition of a stepchild following theprocedures indicated above; orb.

Recognized marriage, partnership, or union following the procedures indicatedabove.

6.

Changes to the PFU are only permitted within an assignment in cases where:a.

A child who is a member of the PFU turns 21, gets married, enters into a
recognized partnership or union, dies, or is no longer resident at the duty
station.

b.

Where the recognized spouse or partner no longer qualifies as such throughdeath, or annulment or dissolution of a marriage, recognized partnership, orunion.
Other requests for substitution of PFU members are not permitted.

7.

Notification of Changes to PFU or Additional Primary Dependents:

19IV. Recognition of Dependentsa.

It is the responsibility of the UN Volunteer to update UNV in the event ofchanges to the PFU or additional primary dependents. These include:i.

Divorce or annulment of a marriage, or dissolution of a recognizedpartnership or union.

ii. A child has reached 21 years of age, has married, or died, or is no longer
resident at the duty station.
UNV reserves the right to determine the validity of changes in the PFU or
additional primary dependents and may reject changes where, in the opinion of
the Executive Coordinator or designate, the circumstances indicating a change
in PFU have not been met.
b.

Any changes to PFU or additional primary dependents must be reported within
90 calendar days of the status change. Supporting documentation must be
provided if available. Late submission may result in a loss of dependent-related
benefits and entitlements. Failure to keep UNV apprised of changes may
constitute misrepresentation and misconduct and may result in recovery and/or
disciplinary proceedings where applicable.

20IV. Recognition of Dependents

National UN Volunteer
Racha Serhal, isundertaking acomprehensive socioeconomic survey for a shop
in Nabaa using digital
tools (UNDP, 2017).

21

V. Work Management

V. Work
Management
1.

Host Entity Integration: UN Volunteers are under the overall exclusive
administrative authority of UNV, but they serve under the functional authority,
management, and supervision of the Host Entity. UN Volunteers are subject tothe supervisory framework of the Host Entity for, among other things, working
hours, working days, reasonable accommodation, telecommuting options,
flexible working arrangements, leave management, performance management,
overtime working hours, participation in internal mechanisms for advocacy of
UN personnel rights, duty of care protections, and observance of public holidays.
When provided by the local staff association, UN Volunteers may be included in
the relevant Staff Association of the Host Entity.

2.

Roles and Responsibilities of UN Volunteers: UN Volunteers will generally
not be engaged for, nor made to perform functions with fiduciary, certifying,approving, supervisory, managerial, representational duty and responsibilitiesor those normally performed by staff members of the Host Entity. This does
not absolutely preclude UN Volunteers from carrying out task managementof capacity development of UN staff members or hold roles of increased
responsibility. However, in such cases the Host Entity must deploy proper risk
management, and a staff member of the Host Entity must retain general
oversight, direction, and supervisory responsibility of the UN Volunteer, evenwhen stationed in another location.

3.

Compensatory Time Off (CTO): The purpose of CTO is to allow adequate rest for
UN Volunteers. Where UN Volunteers are called upon to work, within reasonable
limits, beyond official working hours, there will be no additional payment
made, but they may be granted CTO equal to the number of extra hours
worked, in accordance with the local practice of the Host Entity for national andinternational UN staff members. No payment can be made in lieu of CTO.

4.

Mission travela.

Travel for a period of less than three (3) months, whether inside or outside thecountry of assignment, is mission travel and is not considered a new volunteer
assignment or reassignment.

22

V. Work Managementb.

Mission travel will be in accordance with Host Entity rules and procedures for
Host Entity staff, including, but not limited to, Daily Subsistence Allowance(DSA), terminals, types of tickets purchased, travel times, stopovers, etc. Costs
related to mission travel are borne and paid by the Host Entity, will not becovered by UNV, and are not part of the cost of fielding the UN Volunteer.

c.

UN Volunteers on mission to duty stations eligible for Wellbeing Differential
will not receive the Wellbeing Differential for that duty station. Any issues andassociated costs arising due to mission travel, including but not limited to visa
issuance, both to the receiving country as well as upon return to the country ofassignment, are the responsibility of the Host Entity.

5.

Proprietary rights: All intellectual property and other proprietary rights
including, but not limited to, patents, copyrights, and trademarks, with regard
to products, processes, inventions, ideas, know-how, or documents and othermaterials developed in any work performed by a UN Volunteer as part of his or
her official duties shall be vested in the Host Entity. UNV will enjoy a perpetual,royalty-free, non-exclusive, and non-transferable license to use all intellectual
property or other proprietary rights arising from the UN Volunteer assignment.
Use by the UN Volunteer of work-related products, including after the UN
Volunteer assignment, is subject to the pre-approval of the UN Host Entity
or UNV. Misappropriating or withholding intellectual property of the United
Nations system by UN Volunteers may be grounds for disciplinary action and/or
further legal action.

23

VI. Appointment as a UN Volunteer

VI. Appointment
as a UN Volunteer
1.

Selection: Upon selection by the Host Entity and confirmation by UNV,
an applicant will be notified of their selection to serve in a UN Volunteer
assignment. The candidate will not be appointed as a UN Volunteer until the
successful completion of the UN Volunteer recruitment process, as outlined inthis chapter.

2.

UN Volunteer Offer and Contract: Once the selected candidate has been
selected for a UN Volunteer assignment and pre-clearances have been
completed, they will be sent a UN Volunteer Letter of Offer (hereinafter the“Offer”) identifying the duration of the assignment and details of the applicable
entitlements for the UN Volunteer assignment. Appointment as a UN Volunteer
remains conditional on the candidate obtaining the following:a.

Medical clearance from the appropriate UN entity stating that the selectedcandidate is physically fit to assume the UN Volunteer assignment and performthe required functions.

b.

Applicable government clearances, such as moving permissions or visa andentry requirements.

c.

Applicable security clearance.

d.

All prior training requirements.

e.

Any other clearances and conditions, which may be applicable to the UN
Volunteer assignment.

3.

Upon receipt and in line with the time stipulated in the Offer, the selectedcandidate is required to complete and sign the Offer, including associatedforms, and submit all documents to the recruitment focal point through theappropriate channels indicated in the Offer. By signing the Offer, the selectedcandidate acknowledges receipt of, understanding of, and agreement to theterms and conditions of the assignment, the list of entitlements specific to the24VI. Appointment as a UN Volunteer

assignment and country, and the obligations contained in the UN Volunteer
Conditions of Service.
4.

Signature of the Offer constitutes a commitment to formalize the appointment
as a UN Volunteer. The selected candidate must not undertake official travel
without authorization from UNV Headquarters and authorization will not beprovided until the selected candidate has confirmed their agreement to theOffer, completed all recruitment formalities and signed the UN Volunteer
Contract. Travel prior to UNV authorization may constitute grounds forcancelling the assignment.

5.

The conditions of the Offer are considered complete once the selectedcandidate has:a.

Indicated their written acceptance of the assignment terms under the Offer;andb.

Been provided medical clearance from the appropriate UN entity stating thatthe selected candidate is physically fit to take up the UN Volunteer assignment
and perform the required functions;c.

Received applicable government clearances, such as moving permissions or visa
and entry requirements;d.

Received applicable security clearance and completed all pre-assignment
training requirements;

e.

Received any other clearances and conditions, which may be applicable, to the
UN Volunteer assignment.

6.

Upon meeting all the conditions contained in the Offer, the selected candidate
will receive a UN Volunteer Contract (hereinafter the “Contract”) for signature.
Where official travel to the duty station is involved, the Contract must be signed
or electronically signed prior to the UN Volunteer’s departure. In all cases, theContract should be signed or electronically signed prior to Commencement ofService.

7.

By signing or electronically signing the Contract, the selected candidate
confirms to have read, understood, and accepted the terms of the UN Volunteer
assignment as outlined in the Contract and all annexes thereto including the
UN Volunteer Conditions of Service.

25

VI. Appointment as a UN Volunteer

8.

The Contract is strictly limited to the dates of the UN Volunteer assignment
outlined therein. The Contract carries no expectancy of extension or renewal
beyond those dates or of conversion into another UN Volunteer assignment or
any other contract type, including UN staff appointments.

9.

Commencement of Service:a.

The Commencement of Service date is generally the date on which the selectedcandidate begins official duties, including, where applicable, taking up official
travel by the route and in the manner authorized by UNV to the UN Volunteer
assignment. Once the selected candidate commences authorized official travel,
medical, and life insurance, and rules pertaining to security apply. The paymentof allowances and other benefits will also begin from the date ofCommencement of Service.

b.

The date for which the selected candidate is required to commence service isagreed upon beforehand with the UN Host Entity, identified in the Contract, andforms a condition of the Contract.

10.

Cancellation, Withdrawal, or Declining the Offer or Contract:a.

Withdrawal of the Offer by the Host Entity/UNV:
If the offer is withdrawn by the Host Entity/UNV at a time when the selectedcandidate fulfils the conditions of the Offer, but has not signed the Contract,
only expenditures incurred for obtaining government and medical clearances
will be reimbursed to the selected candidate.

b.

Withdrawal of the Contract by the Host Entity/UNV:
If the contract is withdrawn at the request of the Host Entity/UNV at a time
when the selected candidate fulfils the conditions set forth in the Offer and has
signed the Contract an amount of compensation equivalent to one month ofMonthly Living Allowance (MLA), which is also equivalent to the notice period fortermination, will be paid to the selected candidate. (See Section XIII.5(d)).

c.

If after signing the Offer or the Contract the candidate declines
In cases where the UN Volunteer declines to take up assignment after signing
the Offer or the Contract, they will be required to refund to UNV any amounts
that have already been disbursed (such as Entry Lump Sum, cost of travelto the duty station, etc.). If they do not refund the sums disbursed, they will
be excluded from future opportunities to be a UN Volunteer, information on
outstanding debts may be disclosed to other UN entities, and appropriate legal
steps may be taken to recover outstanding debts.

26

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

VII. Travel,
Allowances, andEntitlements
1.

The purpose of the allowances and entitlements paid to UN Volunteers is toenable UN Volunteers to sustain a secure standard of living at the duty stations
in line with United Nations standards without incurring personal costs. The
allowances are in no way to be understood as compensation, reward, or salary inexchange for the UN Volunteer’s service. Contingent on specific eligibility criteria,
location of the volunteer assignment and contractual type and category, thepayment of allowances will begin from the date of Commencement of Service.
See Annex 05 for allowances.

2.

Entry Lump Sum Allowance: As of the Commencement of Service date, theUN Volunteer shall be entitled to receive a set amount established by UNV thatis in part a contribution towards all expenses incurred before and initially uponcommencement of service (see Annex 05). This is a one-time payment made only
to the UN Volunteer to help meet the following:a.

Pre-departure expenses, including all costs related to obtaining passport(s)and visa(s) for those travelling internationally, entry medical examination,
vaccination(s), purchasing medicines, and required prophylactic health items.

b.

For UN Volunteers who are authorized to travel to another duty station, the Entry
Lump Sum incorporates all costs for shipment of personal effects.

c.

Living Costs for Mandatory Inductions/Briefings for up to seven calendar days
within Country of Assignment: The Entry Lump Sum Allowance covers living
expenses, including accommodation costs, up to seven (7) calendar days that
the UN Volunteer and any recognized primary dependents, authorized by UNVor the Host Entity to accompany the UN Volunteer, might have to stay in anotherlocation within the Country of Assignment for UNV and/or Host Entity induction
and security briefings before being deployed to the duty station. Travel costs toand from the mandatory stopover location will be covered by the requesting UN
Host Entity.

27

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlementsi.

For induction purposes, if the initial stay in another location exceeds sevencalendar days, the UN Volunteer is entitled to payments following Host Entity
rules on authorized official travel, including any applicable DSA, terminals,
and other related payments, at the expense and payment of the requesting
UN Host Entity.

ii. If a UN Volunteer cannot be deployed to the duty station for reasons outside
their control and other than for induction purposes beyond seven (7) calendar
days, the UN Volunteer will receive the Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA)
applicable to the location in which they must remain plus the applicable DSA
for that location to cover the higher costs associated with the temporary anduncertain nature of their presence outside their ultimate duty station.
d.

Costs of temporary accommodation such as staying at a hotel and other living
expenses after arrival in the duty station.

e.

Buying basic household items and meeting other one-time expenses that are
typically incurred when moving and setting up a new residence. See Section VII.5
below.

3.

The Entry Lump Sum is not intended to cover the cost of authorized travel
itself nor for travel to and from mandatory stopovers outside the country ofassignment.

4.

Living and Travel Costs for Mandatory Inductions/Briefings outside theCountry of Assignment: When a UN Volunteer is required to attend a mandatory
induction, security training, or another obligatory stopover by the UN Host Entity
outside of the country of assignment, the UN Volunteer and any recognizedprimary dependents authorized by UNV or the Host Entity to accompany the
UN Volunteer will be due payments in accordance with the Host Entity rules on
authorized official travel, including the cost of travel itself (per Section VII.6(h)), as
well as any applicable DSA, terminals, etc., and these will be made at the expenseof, and paid to the UN Volunteer by, the requesting UN Host Entity.

5.

Locating Suitable Accommodation in the Duty Station: Although UNV or
the Host Entity may offer initial assistance in locating suitable accommodation
options, the UN Volunteer is fully responsible for identifying suitable and safe
housing and for adhering to lease formalities including signing contracts with thelandlord and paying for the rent, utilities, etc. As noted, for those UN Volunteers
authorized to travel by UNV, the Entry Lump Sum allowance is provided in part to28

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

Moussa Habou, international
UN Volunteer from Niger, works
as advisor in a regional projectin West Africa for marine andcoastal resources management(Sylvain Cherkaoui, UNV 2014).
29

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

support any temporary accommodation needs, while the UN Volunteer searches
for more permanent housing. See Section VII.2(e).
6.

Travel Entitlementa.

Travel Entitlement of UN Volunteer: The UN Volunteer and PFU members, who
are authorized by UNV to travel, are entitled to travel funds under the following
circumstances:i.

On initial or new assignment, provided that the UN Volunteer and PFU
members are authorized to travel by UNV Headquarters.

ii. On change of official duty station, as defined as reassignment in Section III.8.
iii. For eligible Home Visit, as authorized per Section VII.11.
iv. Repatriation, as authorized per Section IX.
b.

Travel documents: UN Volunteers and recognized primary dependents
authorized to travel by UNV must travel using their national passports. UN
Volunteers are generally not entitled to a United Nations Laissez-Passer and/or UN
Travel Certificate.

c.

Visas, residency permits, and clearances for Entitlement travel (Assignment,
Home Visit, Reassignment, Repatriation):i.

It is the responsibility of the UN Volunteer to obtain all necessary legal
clearances, including transit and entry visas from the respective embassies/
consulates, for all UN Volunteer entitlement travel.

ii. For those travelling internationally, if there is no diplomatic or consular
representation for the country of assignment in the place of recruitment, theHost Entity will coordinate the issuance of entry visas for the UN Volunteer
and authorized dependents in another country, or upon arrival in the countryof assignment.
iii. Travel required for obtaining necessary visas in coordination with the Host
Entity will be treated as Mission Travel and will be reimbursed to the selectedcandidate/UN Volunteer, with costs charged to the Host Entity. Once in the
country of assignment, the UN Volunteer must collaborate with the Host
Entity to obtain any necessary residency permits. Costs of residency permits
will be borne by the Host Entity.
iv. The Host Entity in the country of recruitment will provide technical assistancefor all clearances including necessary visas and residency permits. This is30

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

often in the form of a certificate or a letter (Note Verbale) to the appropriate
authorities. Please refer to Section XI.1(c) for details on security clearance.
v. The UN Volunteer and recognized primary dependents authorized to travel
by UNV must not commence entitlement travel to the country of assignmentor to another country where mandatory training is to occur until therequired authorization to travel, transit, and entry visas are obtained andauthorization to proceed has been confirmed by UNV.
vi. Premature travel may result in the cancellation of the UN Volunteer
assignment.
vii. If an entry or re-entry visa cannot be obtained beforehand, the UN Volunteer
and primary dependents authorized to travel may only travel upon receipt of
written confirmation from the Host Entity in the country of assignment that avisa will be issued upon arrival or return to the country of assignment.
d.

Authorization of official travel: Before entitlement travel is undertaken, it
must be authorized in writing by UNV Headquarters. A UN Volunteer shallbe responsible for ascertaining that they have the proper authorization
before purchasing tickets and commencing travel. Non-compliance with theauthorization process will render the travel purchased or undertaken to beconsidered unauthorized, and all costs, clearance, and risks associated withunauthorized travel are fully the responsibility of the UN Volunteer.

e.

Standard of travel: Entitlement travel shall, in all instances, be by a mode, route,and standard of travel approved in advance by UNV Headquarters.
i.

Deviation from Approved Travel Route: UN Volunteers who wish, for reasonsof personal preference or convenience, to make travel arrangements thatvary from the approved mode, dates, route, or standard of travel must inform
UNV Headquarters in advance and assume the responsibility for all changes,
including payment of any additional costs incurred above the entitlement
authorized by UNV Headquarters. A UN Volunteer who deviates from theapproved travel route for his or her personal convenience is not covered by
UNV’s life and dismemberment insurance during any stages of the journeythat do not correspond to the approved route. A UN Volunteer who deviatesfrom the approved travel route for his or her personal convenience, isnevertheless expected to arrive at the duty station or any mandatory training
at the date set forth in the UN Volunteer contract. Failure to do so may resultin the UN Volunteer assuming any additional costs associated with the delay,
as well as deduction from their annual leave.

f.

Travel Entitlement: The international UN Volunteer and recognized primary31

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

dependents authorized to travel are each provided with a lump-sum payment,
calculated in accordance with UNV’s methodology for travel costs, based on aroute from the place of recruitment to the designated location. National UN
Volunteers are provided a fixed lump-sum amount. See Annex 05.
g.

Travel Time: Travel days are the days required for entitlement travel and are
not deducted from Annual Leave. UN Volunteers will normally be provided
one (1) travel day per journey to and from the designated travel locations forall entitlement travel. In cases where travel time exceeds a total of 24 hours,
additional calendar day(s) may be granted, based on the travel route authorized
by UNV.

h.

Travel Costs for Mandatory Inductions/Briefings in Locations Outside the Duty
Station: For assignment and repatriation travel, the Host Entity may arrange forbriefing or debriefing at a designated location outside of the Duty Station before
the UN Volunteer reaches their destination. This may take place within or outside
the country of assignment. Travel costs associated with such briefings and/or
debriefings for UN Volunteers, as well as for any recognized primary dependents
authorized by UNV or the Host Entity to accompany the UN Volunteer, will beborne by the Host Entity. See also Section VII.2 for stops within the country ofassignment and Section VII.3 for stops outside of the country of assignment.

7.

Dependent Travela.

Criteria for eligible recognized primary dependents to travel with the
UN Volunteer to join at the duty station: In order for recognized primarydependents to travel to join the international UN Volunteer at the duty station,
the following conditions must exist:i.

The United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) classifies theduty station as a “family duty station”;

ii. The nature of the assignment, living conditions, and other factors, suchas availability of housing, schools, and medical facilities, are suitable fordependents to reside at the duty station;iii. The duration of the assignment is a minimum of 12 months;
iv. The recognized primary dependents who intend to join the UN Volunteer will
spend at least six (6) months at the duty station during the UN Volunteer’s
assignment;
v. The UN Volunteer has submitted the relevant support documentation
establishing dependency status (i.e. marriage, birth, and/or adoption
certificates) to UNV Headquarters for verification in a timely manner;32

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

vi. The UN Volunteer has provided UNV with confirmation that visas andclearances (as applicable) have been arranged;vii. UNV has issued all necessary authorizations for the recognized primarydependents to join the UN Volunteer at the duty station.
b.

Failure to meet all the above requirements will result in the loss of travel
entitlements to the duty station for any PFU authorized to travel to the duty
station and/or loss of security provisions for any additional primary dependents
that have not been authorized to travel to the duty station.

c.

Travel of PFU members: PFU members must have authorization prior totravelling to the duty station of the UN Volunteer. The specific amounts to be paid
by UNV for the travel costs of PFU members who are authorized by UNV to travel
will be communicated in the Offer.

d.

Travel of PFU members not residing in the place of recruitment: If the eligible
PFU members authorized to travel do not reside in the place of recruitment of the
UN Volunteer, any travel costs for such PFU members that exceed the cost of
traveling to the duty station from the UN Volunteer’s place of recruitment areborne by the UN Volunteer.

e.

PFU members residing in the duty station less than six months: If any
individual PFU member stays for a cumulative period of fewer than six months at
the duty station, the cost of their repatriation will be borne by the UN Volunteer.

f.

Travel of additional primary dependents: If a UN Volunteer wishes to bring
additional primary dependents to the duty station and the criteria set out in
Section III.22 above are met, they shall inform UNV Headquarters in advanceand indicate their relationship (substantiated by a copy of their birth certificate,
adoption certificate or documents supporting a marriage, partnership or
recognized union, or any other documentation requested by UNV). All travel costsof additional primary dependents, including travel to the duty station andrepatriation, will be borne by the UN Volunteer.

g.

Accommodation related to dependents: The UN Volunteer bears responsibility
for all accommodation costs incurred on account of all dependents, including for
temporary or permanent accommodation. UNV assumes no added financial
responsibility and provides no daily subsistence allowance for temporary
accommodation, except as specified.

8.

Rest and Recuperation: International UN Volunteers may be provided
opportunities equal to international UN staff members for Rest and Recuperation(R&R), as determined by the Host Entity. R&R is administered by the UN Host

33

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

Entity, including processing travel authorizations, payment of an advance, andsettlement of travel claims. UN Volunteers who receive an R&R entitlement,
are bound by the administrative instructions of the Host Entity regarding theentitlement and must also comply with the R&R cycle period.
The cost related to R&R is not part of the normal cost of fielding the UN Volunteer,and must not be deducted from any UNV entitlements.
9.

Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA): UN Volunteers are not provided an income
nor paid remuneration for services rendered, but are provided a Volunteer
Living Allowance (VLA), which is a support mechanism to sustain them during
their volunteer service and voluntary action. This allowance is consideredreimbursement at the level determined to ensure the UN Volunteer’s safety,
security, and sustenance, in line with United Nations standards.

a.

VLA composition: VLA is comprised of a Monthly Living Allowance (MLA) and a
Family Allowance (FA), where applicable. (See Section VII.9(g)).

b.

VLA entitlement: UN Volunteers are entitled to VLA as set out in their Offer. Thereis no entitlement to VLA during periods of unauthorized absence from service.
UNV may decide not to grant VLA during periods of sick leave spent away fromthe duty station or during absence from service due to illness or injury which is
not covered by a balance of sick leave days.

c.

Calculation of VLA: UNV Headquarters will determine the VLA according to set
calculation procedures established by UNV’s methodology. Such methodology
takes into account, among other things, the prevailing economic conditions at
the applicable duty station, costs of living based on an array of goods and services,
including transportation expenses, and rates of inflation, based on data provided
by the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) and other competent bodies.
VLA rates paid to UN Volunteers in a particular duty station vary depending ontype and category.
i.

Periodic Adjustments: From time to time, UNV Headquarters may issue arevised VLA base rate or fixed rate, which will apply to affected UN Volunteers
as determined by UNV, as of the date indicated by UNV Headquarters. Suchrevisions to the VLA base rate or VLA fixed rates do not require consent fromthe UN Volunteer, are not considered a material change in the UN Volunteer
Contract and will not apply retroactively.

ii. Reduction of VLA when accommodation is provided or subsidized: UN
Volunteers receiving provided or subsidized accommodation may havetheir VLA reduced in accordance with prevailing Host Entity policies and34

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

procedures. In cases where the Host Entity policy does not account for UN
Volunteers, as a general principle, UN Volunteers will be treated as analogous
to UN staff. Reductions for provided or subsidized accommodation shall not
exceed 30 per cent of the monthly VLA.
d.

Payment of VLA:i.

Currency: Payment of VLA to the UN Volunteer is made in the currency
established for each contractual type. Although context-specific deviations
may exist, VLA payments for national UN Volunteers are normallydenominated in the local currency or another currency payable to locallyrecruited UN staff. Payment for international UN Volunteers is normally in
U.S. dollars. VLA is paid at the end of each month and pro-rated based on 30
calendar days if paid for a period of less than a full month. The first VLA may
be paid in the month following the month of the Commencement of Service.

ii. Changes in beneficiary bank distribution: UN Volunteers are generally
permitted up to two changes in beneficiary bank distribution per year.
Changes due to reassignment or to circumstances that were, in the opinionof UNV, beyond the UN Volunteer’s control, will not be counted towards thesetwo changes. UNV bears no responsibility for misdirected payment due toincorrect banking information provided by UN Volunteers.
e.

Advances: UN Volunteers are not entitled to advances against the allowances
they receive from UNV.

f.

Maximum deductions: As VLA is set to maintain minimum living standards,
deductions from VLA, except for final payments, will generally not be made.
However, where authorized, deductions from the full applicable VLA rate should
not cumulatively exceed 30 per cent of the full applicable monthly VLA rate,unless the deductions are made from the final month’s VLA or Exit Lump Sum
allowance, in which case 100 per cent may be deducted.

g.

Family Allowance (FA):
FA is a flat-rate monthly payment made to international UN Volunteers with PFU
members, irrespective of whether the PFU member(s) join the UN Volunteer atthe duty station or not. (See Annex 05).
i.

The purpose of the FA is to assist the UN Volunteer to meet the additional
expenses associated with having a family. It is recognized that theexpenditure pattern may be different between families and the FA may
not meet all the additional expenses, so it is the responsibility of each UN

35

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

Volunteer to manage her or his household with the amounts made available
through the FA and MLA.
ii. Structure and rates of Family Allowance: The FA is established on a global
basis by UNV Headquarters and applies equally regardless of the UN
Volunteer’s duty station. FA rates are adjusted from time to time, basedon reviews undertaken by UNV Headquarters, and effective dates arecommunicated to affected UN Volunteers. The FA is paid at two rates asfollows:
a. One-dependent rate – when PFU consists of one member other than the
UN Volunteer;b. Two-dependents rate – when PFU consists of two or more members otherthan the UN Volunteer;iii. Eligibility for Family Allowance: The applicable rate will be paid irrespectiveof whether the PFU member(s) join the UN Volunteer at the duty station.
Changes to the PFU, such as a dependent child reaching 21 years of age or
marrying, entry into a recognized partnership or union by the UN Volunteer,
divorce or dissolution of the UN Volunteers’ marriage, partnership or union, orthe birth or adoption of a child may result in an increase or decrease of theapplicable FA.
iv. The UN Volunteer is responsible for advising the UNV Field Unit/ HQ ofchanges to the PFU within 90 days of the status change. Late notification
after the 90-day grace period of status change may result in the following
consequences.
a. In cases where the late notification results in an upward revision of theFA, no retroactive payments will be made, and the revision will take effectfrom the date of notification.
b. In cases where the late notification results in a downward revision of theFA, retroactive recovery of all excess payments will be made from the dateof the actual status change (not the date of notification to UNV by the UN
Volunteer).
10.

Wellbeing Differential (WBD): UN Volunteers serving in locations where theliving conditions meet the eligibility criteria for payment of WBD, as establishedby UNV methodology, will receive a Wellbeing Differential payment. The purposeof the Wellbeing Differential is to offset the cost of living conditions that aresubstantially below those conditions in what is defined by UNV as a hardship duty
station. Danger Pay and hardship entitlements provided to UN staff do not apply
to UN Volunteers.

a.

Amount of WBD and method of payment: UNV will set the Wellbeing

36VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

Differential rate based on UNV’s methodology for establishing eligibility.
Entitlement to Wellbeing Differential is based on the duty station listed in the
Description of Assignment. The list of duty stations designated as being eligible
for Wellbeing Differential and the applicable level is updated regularly by UNV.
b.

Period of eligibility: UN Volunteers serving in duty stations that are eligible for
WBD are paid as of the Commencement of Service date to the date of departure,including any authorized leave and/or official absence from the duty station.
Should the UN Volunteer’s arrival or departure in the assigned duty station notcoincide with the first or last day of the month respectively, WBD will be pro-rated
over a 30-day calendar month.

c.

UN Volunteers on an official mission to duty stations eligible for WBD will not be
entitled to receive a pro-rated WBD applicable to that duty station.

11.

Home Visita.

Purpose of the Home Visit: The purpose of the Home Visit is to enableinternational UN Volunteers (and members of the PFU who are authorized by
UNV to be present at the duty station) to travel back home to rest and to renew
personal, cultural, and professional ties in the home country. This benefit is only
available to international UN Volunteers.

b.

Nature of the entitlement: UN Volunteers and eligible PFU members are entitledto Home Visit travel that will follow applicable UNV travel methodology for travel
costs, to support the costs of travel between the duty station and the place of theHome Visit.

c.

Eligibility: International UN Volunteers are eligible for Home Visit provided thefollowing conditions are met:i.

The UN Volunteer has completed the qualifying service time requirements
and accrual of Home Visit points, as specified in the paragraphs below; andii. The UN Volunteer and the PFU members return to the duty station from theHome Visit with a minimum of six months remaining before the expiration of
the UN Volunteer’s contract, or three months remaining before the expirationof the UN Volunteer’s contract, if serving in a 12-month Home Visit cycle duty
station as determined by the ICSC; andiii. In the case of the first Home Visit, he/she must have at least six months ofservice remaining before the expiration of his/her contract beyond the dateon which the UN Volunteer will have accrued the requisite points for their
duty station.

37

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlementsd.

Home Visit of Eligible Family Members:i.

PFU members, who have either joined the UN Volunteer in the country ofassignment at UNV’s expense and stayed for at least six months, and those
newly born at the duty station (if part of the PFU), may accompany the UN
Volunteer on the Home Visit and are entitled to a lump-sum payment, asestablished by UNV methodology.

ii. Children who are part of the PFU and who are approaching the age of 21
before or at the time of the Home Visit and who cannot remain at the duty
station for at least six months from the return date following the Home Visit
will not be entitled to the Home Visit. Instead, repatriation travel will beauthorized.
iii. Eligible PFU members do not have a Home Visit entitlement independent of
the UN Volunteer. Eligible PFU members should therefore accompany the
UN Volunteer on the Home Visit. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture of theentitlement.
iv. Eligible PFU members are not entitled to travel on Home Visit from outside
the UN Volunteer’s duty station to his/her duty station and back outside.
di.

Point Accrual for International Volunteers: A Home Visit service credit point
system is used to determine when a Home Visit is due. Home Visit service credit
points accrue based on calendar months of service, from the Commencement ofService date.
Home Visit point accrual for international UN Volunteers will be as follows:i.

Duty stations classified by ICSC as H, A, B and C accrue Home Visit points at 1
point per month.

ii. Duty stations classified by ICSC as D or E accrue Home Visit points at 2 permonth.
iii. Periods of less than one month will follow UNDP POPPs for international UN
staff.

Home Visit point calculation for unclassified duty stations will follow the ICSC
classification of the capital city in the country of assignment without regard to the
ICSC Rest and Recuperation Framework.
f.

Qualifying for Home Visit: A UN Volunteer qualifies for Home Visit when they
have accrued 24 points. Upon exercising Home Visit, 24 points are deducted fromthe balance, and the accrual of points continues.

38

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlementsg.

Frequency of Home Visit: The Home Visit cycle of a duty station is determined by
its Hardship classification as determined by the ICSC (see ICSC’s internet site).

h.

Interval between Home Visits: In the case of a UN Volunteer serving at a
24-month duty station, at least 12 months must elapse between the last Home
Visit and a new Home Visit. In the case of a UN Volunteer serving at a 12-month
duty station, at least six months must elapse.

i.

Interval between Entitlement-Related Travels: A minimum of three months isrequired between entitlement-related travels (e.g. Home Visit and Repatriation
Travel), counting from the date of return to the duty station from one travel to thedate of departure of the next travel.

j.

Use of Annual Leave for the Home Visit: UN Volunteers are required to use
accrued Annual Leave during the Home Visit. (See also Section VIII.1(a) on Annual
Leave.) However, the authorized official travel time to/from the Home Visit
location (up to a maximum of three days each way) is not counted against Annual
Leave during the Home Visit. (See also Section VII.6(g)).

k.

Designated Home Visit Location: The place of the Home Visit shall be thedomicile of the UN Volunteer.

l.

Changing place of Home Visit: Upon presentation of what, in the view of the
UNV Executive Coordinator, are compelling circumstances, UNV may authorize
another location where domicile is established, as a change to the designatedHome Visit location. Such change will be permitted only one time per UN
Volunteer assignment. A UN Volunteer requesting such authorization will be
required to satisfy UNV that:i.

the UN Volunteer file does not accurately reflect the permanent domicile of
the UN Volunteer, andii. the UN Volunteer maintained normal residence in such other location for aminimum three (3) month period preceding his or her assignment, andiii. that the UN Volunteer continues to have close family and/or personal ties inthat alternative location.
m.

Compliance with Home Visit policy: Funds for Home Visit must be used fortravel to the Home Visit location. Proof of Home Visit travel may be requested at
any point during the UN Volunteer assignment. Should UN Volunteers be in noncompliance with Home Visit requirements or unable to furnish proof of travel, thefunds provided for the Home Visit may be recovered from them.

39VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlements

Travel funds for Home Visit are not transferable to any other person or for any
other purpose besides purchasing tickets to the designated Home Visit location.
Misuse of the funds will result in forfeiture of the entitlement, repayment of funds
disbursed, and possible disciplinary measures.
n.

Home Visit Area and Security Clearance: Security Clearance is required for all
official entitlement travel including Home Visit.

o.

Home Visit and Security or Medical Evacuations: If, during an assignment, theUN Volunteer is evacuated to their home country for security or medical reasons,the next travel allowance for the Home Visit will only be authorized once they
have returned to the duty station, after the evacuation for the required period oftime as described in Section XI.4(b).

p.

Reference to UNDP Programme and Operations Policy and Procedures(POPPs): For areas of ambiguity related to Home Visit that are not explicitly
covered in the Conditions of Service the UNDP Programme and Operations Policy
and Procedures (POPPs) for Home Leave of internationally-recruited staff will
apply.

12.

Training and Learninga.

Access to Learning: UN Volunteers should have access to a variety of learning
opportunities to enhance skills relevant to their assignments and professional
growth.
i.

The Host Entity is responsible for ensuring UN Volunteers can access thetraining required to perform their duties, which may include Host Entity
onboarding, access to mandatory courses, specialized training, and online
learning platforms of the Host Entity.

ii. UNV provides access to learning opportunities relevant to all UN Volunteers
at the different stages of their UN Volunteer assignment, however,
the individual UN Volunteer is responsible for his or her professional
development. Periodically UNV will support training that the UN Volunteer
may be invited to join based on several factors including their contractual
type and category.
b.

Learning Time for UN Volunteers: UN Volunteers can take advantage of
Learning Leave discussed below (see Section VIII.2.(a)). However, Learning Leave is
not to be used for events and workshops, which may also include training,organized by UNV and/or the Host Entity. The time dedicated to such learning
activities is considered a regular working day.

40

VII. Travel, Allowances, and Entitlementsc.

Mandatory courses and induction training: UN Volunteers must complete all
mandatory and induction courses within the time limits imposed and may berequested by UNV or the Host Entity to periodically refresh mandatory courses.
UN Volunteers are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the Host Entity’s
policy on prohibited conduct and with the various options and internal channels
available for addressing such conduct.

13.

Deductions from Allowances and Paymentsa.

UNV Headquarters may make deductions from any allowance or payment due tothe UN Volunteer to cover:i.

Indebtedness to UNV, the UN system and UNV contracted health insurance
provider.

ii. Family support debts, if judicially established by a competent court, andwhen a deduction for this purpose is authorized by the UNV Executive
Coordinator in alignment with the process set out in the Secretary General’sbulletin ST/ SGB/1999/4.
iii. Government-ordered payments.
iv. Unauthorized absence from service.
b.

Deductions for the above four categories may only be up to 30% monthly fromthe VLA, however, up to 100% of the Exit Lump Sum allowance and the last monthof the VLA may be deducted.

c.

Notwithstanding the limits set out by paragraph b. above, where a UN Volunteer
has been provided an exceptional advance for rent payments, UNV will deduct
the full amount of the monthly rent from the UN Volunteer’s VLA.

d.

Outstanding Payment: If a UN Volunteer owes an amount that has not been fully
recovered within the time limits established by UNV, generally within 3 months,
she/he will be excluded from future opportunities to be a UN Volunteer andappropriate legal steps may be taken to recover all outstanding funds. If the UN
Volunteer separates owing an outstanding debt to UNV, this fact may also be
disclosed to other UN entities, and recovery obtained through other UN Entities if
the former UN Volunteer is employed there.

41

VIII. Leave Entitlements

VIII. Leave
Entitlements
1. ANNUAL LEAVEa.

Accrual: UN Volunteers accrue an entitlement to 2.5 days of Annual Leave percompleted month of the UN Volunteer assignment. Unused accrued Annual
Leave up to a maximum of 30 days is carried over in case of a contract extension
within the same UN Volunteer assignment. Unused accrued Annual Leave may
not be carried over in case of reassignment or a new assignment.

b.

Prorating for incomplete months of servicei.

If the UN Volunteer assignment begins on the first day of the month, the UN
Volunteer will accrue 2.5 working days for that month. If the UN Volunteer
assignment begins between the 2nd and the 16th of the month the UN
Volunteer will accrue 2 working days for that month. If the UN Volunteer
assignment begins after the 16th of the month the UN Volunteer will accrue
1 working day for that month.

ii. If the UN Volunteer assignment ends between the 1st and 16th of themonth the UN Volunteer will accrue 1 working day for that month. If the
UN Volunteer assignment ends between the 17th and next to last working
day the UN Volunteer will accrue 2 working days for that month. If the UN
Volunteer assignment ends on the last working day of the month the UN
Volunteer will accrue 2.5 working days for that month.
UN Volunteers, who are on unauthorized absence, will not accrue annual leavedays for the duration of the unauthorized absence.
c.

Leave requests must be submitted by the UN Volunteer to the Host Entity for
approval. Approval of Annual Leave is subject to the exigencies of service and
UN Volunteers are required to discuss with their supervisors at the Host Entity toreceive approval for taking Annual Leave during the assignment. Should the UN
Volunteer continuously encounter difficulties in receiving approval for Annual
Leave by the Host Entity, he or she is encouraged to bring such circumstances
to the attention of the Administering Office.

42

VIII. Leave Entitlementsd.

Advance Annual Leave may only be granted by the Host Entity up to a
maximum of ten working days and cannot exceed the number of days which
will accrue during the current contract.

e.

Unused Annual Leave: Unused Annual Leave days are forfeited at the endof a UN Volunteer assignment. Annual Leave cannot be commuted to cash.
Assignments will not generally be extended to cover unused leave.

f.

Return from Annual Leave: UN Volunteers must report to service on the firstworking day after Annual Leave. Failure to do so is considered an unauthorized
absence from service and may be charged to the Volunteer’s Annual Leavebalance. Continued absence may lead to a termination of the Contract.

2. LEARNING LEAVE
Eligibility for Learning Leave: Subject to supervisor approval and exigencies ofservice, UN Volunteers may request up to ten working days of Learning Leave
per consecutive 12 months of the UN Volunteer assignment, starting with theCommencement of Service date, provided the Learning Leave is used within thecontract period.
a.

Learning Leave may be organized in conjunction with other field trips, missions,or travel including R&R, Annual Leave, Home Visits, with prior approval of the
Host Entity.

b.

Learning Leave cannot be accrued or commuted to cash. Unused Learning
Leave cannot be retained for use in a subsequent 12-month cycle.

c.

For contract periods of less than 12 months, the Learning Leave will be pro-rated.

d.

Any additional days taken for training over and above the Learning Leave
entitlement should be charged to the UN Volunteer’s Annual Leave.

3. SICK LEAVEa.

Purpose: UN Volunteers who are unable to perform their duties due to illness or
injury, or whose attendance is prevented by public health requirements, may be
granted sick leave.

b.

Notification: UN Volunteers shall, as soon as possible, notify the Host Entity

43

VIII. Leave Entitlements

National UN Volunteer, Freddy Soto, assesses the CBA programme’s progress inthe village nursery of Pin Pin, Tacaná, San Marcos (Daniele Volpe, 2012)
44

VIII. Leave Entitlements

and UNV Headquarters in case of absence from service due to injury or illness(Certified or Uncertified Sick Leave) and seek necessary approvals.
c.

Uncertified Sick Leave: Uncertified Sick Leave is leave that is not validated bya certificate from a qualified medical practitioner. Uncertified sick leave may
be used when a UN Volunteer is unable to perform his/her official duties due tominor illness or injury or for reasons of family-related emergencies.

d.

UN Volunteers receive seven days of uncertified sick leave working days ina calendar year. This amount will be reset at the established interval period.
Unused uncertified Sick Leave days cannot be carried over to anotherassignment.
i.

If after three consecutive days of absence on uncertified sick leave, or after
the seven days entitlement of Uncertified Sick Leave has been exhausted,
the UN Volunteer is still unable to return to work, Certified Sick Leave or
Annual Leave must be used.

e.

Certified Sick Leave: Certified sick leave requires a medical certificate or reportfrom a medical practitioner licensed to practice where the certificate or report isissued.

f.

UN Volunteers are entitled to up to 30 days of certified sick leave based on a
12-month cycle. This amount is reset every 12-month cycle. Unused Certified Sick
Leave days cannot be carried over to another 12-month cycle.

g.

Up to 20 days of sick leave taken cumulatively or consecutively within a calendar
year may be approved by the UN Volunteer’s supervisor, upon presentation by
the UN Volunteer of medical certificates, medical reports, ‘sent home’ slips or
confirmation of medical appointment/consultation letters.

h.

For sick leave beyond 20 working days, the UN Volunteer must submit therequired medical certificate from a medical practitioner, any required UN
medical forms, and medical report directly to the United Nations Office at
Geneva (UNOG) Medical Service for validation as soon as possible and not later
than the 20th working day following the initial absence from duty.

i.

Where a medical certificate or report is not submitted or if the sick leave is
not certified by the UNOG Medical Director, the absence shall be treated foradministrative purposes as unauthorized absence and will be charged against
Annual Leave or treated as an unauthorized absence and deductions made45

VIII. Leave Entitlements

accordingly, if no Annual Leave days are available. No annual leave will accrue forabsences determined to be unauthorized in such cases.
j.

If the required medical certificate is submitted late, and the Executive
Coordinator or his or her designate determines that the late submission was
attributable to exceptional circumstances, the absence may be retroactively
charged to Certified Sick Leave upon certification by the UN Medical Director ordesignated medical officer.

k.

Exceeding Certified Sick Leave: Certified Sick Leave exceeding the maximum
balance for the Contract duration will be charged to remaining Uncertified
Sick Leave, and once uncertified sick leave days are exhausted, to Annual
Leave. Once the maximum entitlement of Certified Sick Leave is exceeded
and remaining uncertified Sick Leave and Annual Leave entitlements are
exhausted, the absence is considered a prolonged incapacity to work because ofillness and may lead to a termination of the Contract per Section XIII.5(b)(vii), in
consultation with the UN Host Entity.

4. MATERNITY LEAVE
Pregnant UN Volunteers are entitled to 16 consecutive weeks of Maternity Leave
per pregnancy during their service as UN Volunteers.
a.

Start of Maternity Leave: Maternity Leave should normally be taken as earlyas six weeks before the calculated due date of birth. If the UN Volunteer wants
to continue to work during the 6 weeks before the due date of birth, she must
present a medical certificate to UNV by a qualified medical practitioner statingthat she is fit to continue working. However, pre-delivery leave must commenceno later than two weeks before the anticipated due date of birth.

b.

If policies or regulations of the Host Entity applicable to their personnel require
an earlier departure for Maternity Leave, the regulations of the Host Entity apply.
In no case can the UN Volunteer be compelled to work beyond six weeks before
her due date.

c.

The UN Volunteer must notify the UNV Administering Office and the Host Entityof the pregnancy within a reasonable notice period and must submit a medical
certificate by a qualified medical physician or midwife to UNV stating the
expected due date of birth.

d.

It is the responsibility of the UN Volunteer to ensure that she is medically fit
to continue working up until the date she chooses to go on Maternity Leave.

46

VIII. Leave Entitlements

However, UNV or the Host Entity may request the UN Volunteer to undergo aperiodic medical examination (see Section X.4) to establish whether she is fit tocontinue working up to the date chosen to begin Maternity Leave.
e.

Parental Leave cannot be taken as an alternative to Maternity Leave.

5. PARENTAL LEAVEUN Volunteers with a contract length of three months or more are entitled toten days of Parental Leave for the birth of their recognized newborn child or for
newly adopted minor dependents through the approval process of the Host
Entity.
a.

Parental Leave may only be approved for the birth of a child whose birthcertificate lists the UN Volunteer as the biological or adoptive parent. The fullparental leave entitlement of 10 days should be taken at once and must be
taken within the first three months following the birth or adoption, which mustalso have occurred after the Commencement of Service date.

b.

Other types of leave may be taken in conjunction with Parental Leave. Family
Leave (see below) may be taken to supplement the Parental Leave and ischargeable to Uncertified Sick Leave, within the maximum allowable. A UN
Volunteer is not eligible for Parental Leave if Maternity Leave has been taken forthe same birth event.

6. FAMILY LEAVEUN Volunteers are permitted to take family leave to address urgent and/or
unforeseen family matters that require the presence of the UN Volunteer tobe absent from their assignment. Family Leave is charged to Uncertified Sick
Leave, within the maximum 7 days allowable. If Uncertified Sick Leave has
already been exhausted, then the Family Leave will be charged to Annual Leaveor treated as an unauthorized absence and deductions made accordingly, if no
Annual Leave days are left.

47

IX. Completion of Assignment

IX. Completion of
Assignment
1. END OF ASSIGNMENT
There is no expectancy of extension, renewal, or conversion of a UN Volunteer
assignment to any other type of appointment. However, UNV may authorize atits discretion an extension of the assignment. This is subject to the satisfactory
performance of the UN Volunteer, a request from the Host Entity, confirmationof funds from the funding agency, and agreement of all parties concerned,
including the UN Volunteer. The terms of an extension (duration, expiry date,nature, and location of assignment) will be communicated to the UN Volunteer.

2. REPATRIATION TRAVEL
On successful completion of the assignment and when travelling, a UN Volunteer
and her or his PFU members will receive a lump sum payment calculated for thetravel costs to either the place of recruitment or domicile. UNV Headquarters
should be informed of the departure plans as early as possible and UNV’s
authorization sought for the UN Volunteer’s repatriation travel, including UNVs
decision on the return location for the UN Volunteer.
Official date of repatriation travel: The UN Volunteer’s official date of repatriation
is normally the day after the contract end date, including situations in which thecontract has been curtailed either by UNV or the UN Volunteer.
If a UN Volunteer or recognized primary dependent authorized by UNV or the
Host Entity to accompany the UN Volunteer is required to stopover in a location
within the country of assignment for debriefing and checkout with UNV and/or
the Host Entity, such stopover should not exceed three days and all related costs
are charged to the Host Entity. The UN Volunteer will receive DSA for themselves
and any recognized primary dependent authorized by UNV or the Host Entity toaccompany the UN Volunteer, as well as VLA payments.
UNV’s responsibilities for security, medical evacuation, and other emergency
evacuation, residence permits/visas, life insurance, or accommodation will ceaseon the day after the contract end date.

48

IX. Completion of Assignment

A UN Volunteer plays with children while working with the survivors of the 2016
earthquake in Ecuador (Juan Diego Pérez Arias, UNV 2016).
Health Insurance: UN Volunteer and the PFU members remain under the UNV
provided health insurance scheme until the end of the one-month insurance
period after termination or expiry of the assignment, provided that the UN
Volunteer and PFU repatriate.
A UN Volunteer or her/his recognized primary dependents who choose notto return immediately to the place of recruitment/domicile, to stay on in the
country of assignment, travels via a different route or mode of transport orto travel to a third country, will have no status as a UN Volunteer and any
dependents will cease to be recognized by UNV and will forfeit the one-month
additional health insurance coverage. In such circumstances, the UN Volunteer
must ensure they have appropriate visas and government clearances for theirstay or travel to an alternate location and are responsible for any costs exceeding
the lump sum payment provided by UNV. UNV, UNDP and the Host Entity
are expressly discharged from any legal or financial obligations for damages,
injuries, or any other adverse occurrences arising during their stay and thereafter,
including during their unauthorized travel home.

3. EXIT LUMP SUM ALLOWANCE:a.

Separating UN Volunteers will receive an Exit Lump Sum allowance based on the49

IX. Completion of Assignment

accrued service, provided their separation is not the result of the exceptions toreceipt of the Exit Lump Sum allowance defined under paras e. and f. below.
b.

Purpose: The purpose of the Exit Lump Sum allowance is to assist the UN
Volunteer to reintegrate into society upon separation. The Exit Lump Sum also
covers shipment of any personal effects after separation.

c.

Accrual: Exit Lump Sum allowance accrues per calendar month of completed
service by the UN Volunteer. The rate is established by UNV. (See Annex 05).

d.

Payment: The Exit Lump Sum allowance will be paid upon compliance with endof assignment requirements by the UN Volunteer, including completion of any
required Final Clearance Checklist.

e.

Full Loss of entitlement: A UN Volunteer will lose the entire entitlement to an
Exit Lump Sum allowance in the following cases:i.

Summary dismissal;

ii. Early separation for misconduct;iii. Termination for facts anterior;
iv. Abandonment of post;
v. Exclusion for a period of up to 5 years after non-extension of the current
Contract for misconduct;
vi. Resignation before completion of the initial contract period;vii. Non-compliance with the end of assignment and all reporting requirements.
f.

Partial Loss of Entitlement: The UN Volunteer will lose that portion of their Exit
Lump Sum that accrued during their most recent contract period* when they
resign without observing the full notice period.

g.

Withholding of Exit Lump Sum allowance: If a UN Volunteer is subject toa disciplinary procedure or may have outstanding financial obligations as
determined by UNV, the payment of the Exit Lump Sum allowance may be
withheld by UNV Headquarters pending the resolution of the disciplinary
process or appropriate recoveries are made.

* As opposed to the full amount of the Exit Lump Sum that accrued during their UN Volunteer
assignment which may have comprised of multiple contract periods.

50

X. Insurance and Duty of Care

X. Insurance andDuty of Care
1. MEDICAL INSURANCEa.

Coverage: The UN Volunteer and eligible PFU dependents will receive UNV
provided medical insurance coverage. Coverage for UN Volunteers begins fromthe Commencement of Service and normally ceases one month after the last
day of the UN Volunteer Contract date.

b.

Discontinuation of UNV medical insurance will also be effectuated in the monthfollowing a recognized PFU child reaching 21 years of age or entering into a
recognized marriage, partnership, or union.

c.

UN Volunteers are required to pay the prevailing UNV medical insurance
premium for recognized additional primary dependents who have beenauthorized to reside in the duty station and do not otherwise have sufficient
medical insurance coverage. Payment for the premiums will be deducted fromthe VLA on a monthly basis and at the prevailing rate. Should the amount exceed
30% of the monthly VLA, the remainder will be deducted from final entitlements.

d.

UNV provided coverage of medical insurance is unaffected when UN Volunteers
have spouses who are UN personnel. However, in such cases where UN
Volunteers are also covered by a UN provided medical insurance policy throughspouse or having been a former UN staff member, they are advised to treat the
UN provided coverage as primary and UNV medical insurance as secondary. UNV
will not be responsible for costs incurred as a result of the UN Volunteer’s failure
to use their primary UN insurance.

e.

The terms of insurance coverage will be governed by the agreement between
UNV and the insurance provider and are subject to change and periodic
adjustment.

f.

Details of the applicable insurance coverage and procedures for submissionof claims with the designated insurance provider are available from the UNV
Administering Office.

51

X. Insurance and Duty of Careg.

Submission of claims: Claims for compensation under the medical insurance
must be submitted by the UN Volunteers according to the requirements of theinsurance provider.

2. EXTENSION OF MEDICAL INSURANCE COVERAGE
AFTER UN VOLUNTEER ASSIGNMENT FOR INJURY OR
ILLNESS DUE TO SERVICE AS A UN VOLUNTEER
Insurance coverage may be extended beyond the overall maximum coverage
and/or date of completion of the UN Volunteer assignment in cases of injury
or illness attributable to their UN Volunteer service, if the Medical Director of
the United Nations Medical Services Division or designated UN medical officer
determines that it is necessary to treat a continuing illness or injury which arose
for the first time during the UN Volunteer assignment and whose proximate
cause was the UN Volunteer assignment. The Medical Director will recommend
the length of the extension and associated costs will be borne by the Host Entity.
Irrespective of the foregoing, if the Contract is terminated due to prolonged
incapacity to work because of illness (see Section XIII.5(b)(vii)), medical insurance
coverage of the UN Volunteer will continue until the last day of the initiallyagreed Contract period including the one-month post service extension, or for aperiod of six months after the Contract termination date, whichever is shorter.

3. AFTER SERVICE HEALTH INSURANCE
Separating UN Volunteers, who have completed their initial assignment will havethe option to purchase the UNV medical insurance at the established rates forthemselves and qualified dependents for a limited time up to a maximum of six
months at their own expense. To obtain after-service health insurance coverage,
the departing UN Volunteer must contact the health insurance provider directly
no later than one day before the date of the end of the UN Volunteer’s Contract.

4. PERIODIC MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS
Notwithstanding other provisions on medical examinations in the Conditionsof Service, UN Volunteers may be required by UNV or the Host Entity at any
time during the assignment to submit a medical report on his or her medical
condition or to undergo a medical examination by the United Nations medical
services or a medical physician designated by the United Nations Medical
Director to confirm the fitness of the UN Volunteer to perform the UN Volunteer
assignment. In the case where a periodic medical examination is performed52

X. Insurance and Duty of Careunder these circumstances, the UN Volunteer will be reimbursed the costs
thereof by the Host Entity.

5. EXIT MEDICAL EXAMINATION
An exit medical examination is not mandatory; however, it may be authorized
subject to the requirements of the Host Entity or UNV. When authorized, theUN Volunteer shall undergo an exit medical examination by an UN-examining
physician or an UN-designated physician within the last six weeks in the countryof assignment.
If an exit medical examination is requested, the UN Volunteer will be reimbursed
the costs thereof by the Host Entity. If the exiting UN Volunteer takes up a
subsequent assignment the exit medical examination may be considered forentry medical clearance provided the start date of the subsequent assignment iswithin six months of the date of exit medical examination.

6. MEDICAL EVACUATIONSa.

Eligibility: UN Volunteers and their recognized primary dependents in the duty
station are normally expected to avail themselves of locally available medical
facilities. However, in an acute life-threatening medical emergency, medical
evacuation of the UN Volunteer and eligible dependents will be considered
when, in the opinion of the UN designated physician authorized to approvemedical evacuations, the available local facilities are inadequate to address the
medical condition.

b.

Medical evacuation will under no circumstances be made for recognized primarydependents of the UN Volunteer who were not authorized to reside at the
duty station or are not eligible for evacuation due to the contractual type andcategory of the sponsoring UN Volunteer.

c.

Process and duty of care standards: Notwithstanding Section X.6(a) above, theauthorization of the destination, designation of the escorts, authorized length,
and approved travel payments related to the medical evacuation is subject tothe UN Medical Evacuation policies and procedures applicable to the medical
evacuation of equivalent staff members. Further administrative guidance andclarity may be contained in applicable UNV Standard Operating Procedures.

d.

UNV reserves the right to authorize medical evacuation in the interest of the53

X. Insurance and Duty of Carehealth, safety, and security of the UN Volunteer, regardless of whether the UN
Volunteer agrees.

7. DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCEa.

Coverage: UN Volunteers are covered by dismemberment insurance for theduration of the assignment. The terms of insurance coverage will be governedby the agreement between UNV and the insurance carrier and are subject tochange. Details of the applicable insurance coverage for contractual type andcategories are available from the Administering Office.

b.

Submitting of claims: Claims for compensation under the dismemberment
insurance must be submitted according to the requirements of the insurance
provider.

8. LIFE INSURANCEa.

Coverage: UN Volunteers are covered by life insurance for the duration of the
UN Volunteer assignment. If a UN Volunteer dies during the UN Volunteer
assignment, the eligible designated beneficiaries will be entitled to receive alife insurance lump sum. The terms of insurance coverage will be governedby the agreement between UNV and the insurance carrier and are subject tochange. Details of the applicable insurance coverage are available from theAdministering Office. Life insurance covers only the death of the UN Volunteer
and not the death of PFU members.

b.

Payment: The life insurance lump sum will only be paid out to the eligible
beneficiaries over the age of 18 years designated in the duly completed“Designation, change or revocation of beneficiary” form, according to therespective shares designated by the UN Volunteer, regardless of national laws or
a Will of the UN Volunteer indicating the beneficiaries. It is the responsibility of
the UN Volunteer to duly complete and sign or electronically sign the form andto keep it up to date. Payment to beneficiaries under the age of 18 will be madeto the person who in the opinion of the Executive Coordinator is the legal parent
or guardian of the beneficiary.
i.

Incomplete/No Beneficiary Form: If the UN Volunteer has failed toappropriately complete the “Designation, change or revocation of
beneficiary” form, or if the form is lost or illegible, payment of the life
insurance sum will be made to the estate of the deceased UN Volunteer inaccordance with the laws of the home country of the UN Volunteer when54

X. Insurance and Duty of CareUN Volunteers Lidia Cabrerizo Crespo and Lilian Gonzales Beyuma (right) are among
15 indigenous UN Volunteers working with the Global Environment Facility forestry
project in support of UNV advocacy and outreach activities, in communities in the
Department of La Paz, Bolivia (Enoc Inti Daza Matamoros, UNV 2017).
proof to the satisfaction of UNV has been received by UNV Headquarters of
the establishment of an administration of the estate.
ii. Passing of Beneficiary (ies): If one or more of the designated beneficiaries
has passed away prior to or after the demise of the UN Volunteer but prior
to payment of the insurance lump sum, payment of the respective share of
the life insurance sum to which the deceased beneficiary was entitled will
be made to the estate of the deceased beneficiary in accordance with thelaws of the home country of the UN Volunteer when proof to the satisfactionof UNV has been received by UNV Headquarters of the establishment of an
administration of the estate.
iii. In cases in which the provisions above do not apply or are deemed
inadequate, the UNV Executive Coordinator reserves the right to determine
who in her or his view the deceased UN Volunteer would have wanted toreceive the payments and to authorize payment accordingly.
iv. UNV will keep the name and the shares of the designated beneficiary
confidential unless it decides there is a need to waive the confidentiality.

55

XI. Security

XI. Security
1. COVERAGEa.

United Nations Security Management System: As UN personnel, UN
Volunteers and their recognized dependents who are authorized to reside at the
duty station are covered by the United Nations Security Management System(hereinafter the “UNSMS”) under the same terms and conditions applicable toequivalent UN staff members.
UN Volunteers, their PFU, and additional primary dependents, who are legallyauthorized to reside at the duty station are entitled to be fully incorporated
into the Host Entity’s security planning, management, and implementation
arrangements for the area of the country operation/field presence under the
responsibility of the Host Entity and under the overall authority of the UN
Designated Official (DO). This includes but is not limited to the applicabilityof Security Risk Measures (SRMs), Residential Security Measures (RSMs), andarrangements and decisions related to security relocation and evacuation
under the same terms and conditions applicable to internationally and locallyrecruited UN staff members of the Host Entity.

b.

Non-Family Duty Stations: Family members of a UN Volunteer serving in a
non-family duty station are not eligible to be covered by the UNSMS. UNV andthe Host Entity bear no responsibility for the security of the PFU or other family
members of a UN Volunteer, which may include those of national UN Volunteers
living with their family, who are within UN determined commuting distancefrom a non-family duty station.

c.

Security Clearance: UN Volunteers traveling to an area where a security phaseis in effect or security clearance is required must first obtain Security clearance
from the DO or UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), as applicable.
UN Volunteers must not travel until such authorization is obtained.
It is the UN Volunteer’s responsibility to ensure they have obtained security
clearance before embarking on either authorized official or discretionary
personal travel. Failure to abide by the security requirements may render life
insurance coverage invalid and may constitute misconduct.

56

XI. Securityd.

UN Security Policy Manual: The DO for security will be guided by the provisionsof the Security Policy Manual (SPM), which are equally applicable to UN
Volunteers. A copy of the SPM may be obtained from the DO.

2. INCLUSION OF DEPENDENTS
The recognition of dependents under the UNSMS for UN Volunteers is limited torecognized primary dependents. UN Volunteers are obliged to provide to UNV
details of their recognized primary dependents who reside at the duty stationand provide the necessary supporting documentation at the request of UNV.

3. SECURITY OBLIGATIONSUN Volunteers and all their dependents must adhere fully to the security
obligations applicable to them according to the UNSMS and to all instructions
issued by local UN security officials. They must complete all required security
training and attend security briefings at the request of UNV or the Host Entity.
Any failure to comply with this provision may result in the DO and UNV
declining responsibility for any injury, loss or damage sustained, and may beconsidered misconduct. If a UN Volunteer fails to comply with the instructions
for evacuation/relocation and remains at the duty station/country of assignment,
the life insurance, dismemberment plan, and coverage will cease to apply.

4. EVACUATION AND RELOCATIONa.

Temporary safe haven: If UNDSS authorizes relocation/evacuation of UN
personnel from a duty station or country of assignment for security reasons, theDO will make arrangements for the UN Volunteer to travel to the designatedsafe haven with the other equivalent UN personnel.
In the case of travel to the temporary safe haven, the eligible recognized primarydependents authorized to join the UN Volunteer at the duty station will also becovered, if so authorized by UNDSS.

b.

Annual leave and determination of the Home Visit following a security
evacuation: Annual leave will accrue normally during the security relocation/
evacuation. However, if the UN Volunteer returns to the duty station after an
evacuation to the home country, the period until the next Home Visit will becounted as from the date of return from the evacuation.

57

XI. Securityc.

Payment of allowances: UNV Guidelines on Security Evacuation, which include
payment of allowances during security evacuation, are provided in Annexes 4
and 5.

5. INSURANCE AND COMPENSATION FOR LOSS OR
DAMAGE TO PERSONAL EFFECTSa.

Cases directly related to emergency situations: Eligible UN Volunteers may
be entitled to reasonable compensation if their personal effects are lost or
damaged as a direct result of an emergency situation created by war, civil
unrest, or natural disaster or in other emergency situations caused by force
majeure as determined by UNV, in the areas where they are obliged to be forthe discharge of their duties. Such an emergency must have occurred in a place
where the UN Volunteer had been authorized to travel to and was obliged to be
to discharge her/his official duties.
i.

The compensation will be within the limits and under the terms andconditions established by UNV Headquarters. The compensation limits areclarified in the terms, conditions, and procedure for submitting claims forloss or damage to the Advisory Panel and Disciplinary Measures and Claims(APDMC) in Annex 03.

ii. The APDMC will not generally review any request for compensation from a
UN Volunteer who fails to submit the inventory list of personal effects before
the date of damage to or loss of personal effects. UN Volunteers are advised
to submit an inventory of their personal effects to UNV immediately after
moving into permanent accommodation and no later than six weeks after
Commencement of Service.
iii. UN Volunteers are advised to update and re-submit the inventory every six
months or as necessary at any time when the UN Volunteer has boughta new item of value. While considering claims for compensation for lossof or damage to personal effects, the APDMC will disregard items thatare not listed in the inventory unless satisfactory evidence of purchase or
acquisition after the submission of the last inventory can be produced.
b.

Cases unrelated to emergency situations: Damage to or loss of personal
effects which occurs as a result of circumstances other than emergencies as
outlined in Section XI.5(a) above, are not the responsibility of UNV and will not
be reviewed by the APDMC. UN Volunteers are advised to insure their personal
effects against burglary, theft, and fire as soon as they arrive at the duty station.
It is the responsibility of the UN Volunteer to insure personal effects with aninsurance provider of her/his choice.

58

XII. Volunteer Reporting

XII. Volunteer
Reporting
1. REGULAR REPORTING
UN Volunteers are required to report regularly to UNV on the implementationof their assignment, their contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals,
and various aspects of volunteerism in connection with their assignment. The
specific requirements on the substance of the reporting, the mode of reporting,as well as the required frequency will be indicated to the UN Volunteer at the
beginning of the assignment. The terms of the reporting requirements may bealtered during the assignment at the discretion of UNV.

2. END OF ASSIGNMENT REPORTAll UN Volunteers are required to complete an end of assignment report. The
required contents, format, and mode of submission of the end of assignment
report will be indicated to the UN Volunteer by UNV. The payment of the final
entitlements and the issuance of the Certificate of Service are contingent upon
the submission of the end-of-assignment report.

3. HOST ENTITY REPORTING
UN Volunteers are required to comply with any reporting requirements of the
Host Entity as may be applicable to the UN Volunteer assignment.

4. PERFORMANCE APPRAISALUN Volunteers will undergo a regular performance appraisal process over
the time of their assignment. Performance appraisal feedback is a crucial UN
Volunteer record and may be used should the UN Volunteer express interest
in another UN Volunteer assignment in the future. The Performance Appraisal
process involves the UN Volunteer and their supervisor. Completion of the
Performance Appraisal is mandatory and completed reports must be sent to
UNV Headquarters before completion of service.

59

XIII. Separation from the UN Volunteer Assignment

XIII. Separationfrom the UN
Volunteer
Assignment
1. GROUNDSA UN Volunteer is separated from the UN Volunteer assignment on thefollowing grounds:• Expiry of Contract• Resignation• Abandonment of Post
• Termination• Death

2. EXPIRY OF CONTRACT
The UN Volunteer assignment expires automatically and without prior noticeon the end date specified in the Contract. There is no right or expectation toextension or conversion to another type of assignment or to employment with
UNV or any other UN entity.

3. RESIGNATION
A UN Volunteer may resign from the UN Volunteer assignment by giving therequired notice to the Host Entity and UNV Headquarters. Such resignationmust be unequivocal and unconditional.

60

XIII. Separation from the UN Volunteer Assignmenta.

Notice periodi.

UN Volunteers intending to resign from their assignment must provide aminimum notice period of 30 calendar days.

ii. The notice period is a minimum. A UN Volunteer can declare theirresignation at any time prior to the start of the notice period.
iii. UNV may agree to a shorter notice period at the request of the UN
Volunteer.
b.

Consequences of resigning in the initial contract period: A UN Volunteer
resigning with an effective date before completion of the first Contract period
will forfeit any entitlement to any Exit Lump Sum allowance that may haveaccrued. (See Section IX.3(e)).

c.

Consequences of failure to comply with the stipulated notice period: If the
UN Volunteer resigns with insufficient notice, the number of deficient days fromthe applicable notice period will be charged first against their Annual Leave. Anydays deficient in notice beyond the accrued Annual Leave will be treated as an
unauthorized absence and a pro-rated amount deducted accordingly. Lastly,
the UN Volunteer will also lose that portion of their Exit Lump Sum that accrued
during their most recent contract period.*

4. ABANDONMENT OF POST
A UN Volunteer whose absence from service is not authorized and who cannot
provide what is, in the opinion of UNV, a satisfactory explanation or excuse isconsidered to have abandoned his or her post.
a.

UNV will attempt to contact the UN Volunteer, using the latest physical andpersonal email address, telephone, and other contact information provided
by the UN Volunteer, within 10 working days of the first day of unauthorized
absence. Failure to report for duty or provide a satisfactory explanation after the
10 working days may result in a determination that he or she has abandoned
their post.

b.

Irrespective of whether UNV succeeds in contacting the UN Volunteer, theabandonment of post, once established in the opinion of UNV, will become
retroactively effective as of the first day of unauthorized absence from service.

* As opposed to the full amount of the Exit Lump Sum that accrued during their UN Volunteer
assignment which may have comprised of multiple contract periods.

61

XIII. Separation from the UN Volunteer Assignment(See Section IX.3(e)(iv) regarding the loss of Exit Lump Sum allowance for theabandonment of post).
c.

Separation as a result of a determination of abandonment of post is notconsidered termination.

5. TERMINATION BY UNVa.

Termination: Termination is a foreshortening of a UN Volunteer assignment at
the initiative of UNV.

b.

Termination grounds: UNV may separate a UN Volunteer prior to the expiry of
his or her contract by terminating the contract for the following reasons:i.

For facts anterior to the UN Volunteer assignment, which were unknown at
the time of assignment and which are relevant to the eligibility or suitabilityof the UN Volunteer to the assignment;

ii. For misconduct following a disciplinary review process resulting in early
separation for misconduct or summary dismissal (see Section XV.4(a) (iii)and (iv));
iii. For early termination of the project or operation to which the UN Volunteer
is assigned;
iv. For documented unsatisfactory work performance of the UN Volunteer;v. For external circumstances not caused by the UN Volunteer, whichmake separation necessary in the opinion of UNV in the interests of theadministration of the organization;
vi. If the maximum period of evacuation has been exceeded (see Annex 04);
vii. For prolonged incapacity to work because of injury or illness (see Section
VIII.3(j));
viii. For any other reasons provided the UN Volunteer consents to thetermination.
c.

Notice of Termination: Except as otherwise stipulated below, a UN Volunteer
whose Contract is to be terminated, shall be given not less than thirty (30) days
notice period.
No notice of termination will be observed by UNV in the cases of summary
dismissal, prolonged incapacity to work because of illness.

62

XIII. Separation from the UN Volunteer Assignmentd.

Compensation in lieu: UNV may pay the UN Volunteer compensation inlieu of the notice period. Such compensation will be equal to the VLA and allother entitlements and allowances, including insurance, less any applicabledeductions, for the applicable notice period.

6. DEATH OF THE UN VOLUNTEERa.

In the event the UN Volunteer dies during the UN Volunteer assignment, theContract will end with immediate effect.

b.

If the deceased UN Volunteer has recognized primary dependents covered
by UNV medical insurance, their medical coverage will be extended for 45days past the date of death of the UN Volunteer to allow them to obtain otherinsurance or reintegrate into their respective national system.

c.

In addition to the applicable life insurance provisions outlined above in Section
X.8, the beneficiaries will be paid a lump sum equaling 1.5 months of VLA,
according to the shares set out in the “Designation, change or revocation of
beneficiary” form. The beneficiaries will also receive any outstanding financial
entitlements payable by UNV or the Host Entity that have accrued by the timeof death, including outstanding unpaid VLA and Exit Lump Sum allowance.
These payments will be made in accordance with the “Designation, changeor revocation of beneficiary” form. In cases where the beneficiary form isunavailable or deficient, or where the named beneficiaries have passed, theprovisions of Section X.8.b(i-iv) apply.

63

XIII. Separation from the UN Volunteer AssignmentMichelle Pazmiño is anational UN Volunteer
Protection Officer with theInternational Organization
for Migration (IOM) in
64

Ecuador. (Juan Diego Pérez
Arias, UNV 2016).

XIV. Final Separation

XIV. Final
Separation
1.

Final Clearance Checklist: The Final Clearance Checklist assists UNV toestablish whether the departing UN Volunteer has any outstanding obligations(financial or otherwise). Such obligations include, but are not limited to,
obligations towards the UN, and private legal obligations, including rent, bills,
and court-ordered family support.

2.

The Final Clearance Checklist is the responsibility of the UN Volunteer at theend of an assignment and must be cleared by the Host Entity and UNDP/UNV.
The authorization of the Certificate of Service, return travel and payment of the
Exit Lump Sum allowance is contingent upon final clearance from both. No Exit
Lump Sum will be paid until the Final Clearance Checklist is completed, and anyother specific instructions from UNV are complied with.

3.

Any outstanding obligations that arise after the completion of the Final
Clearance Checklist will nonetheless be the full responsibility of the former UN
Volunteer and any recovery and/or legal action may be pursued accordingly.

4.

Certificate of Service: After completion of the UN Volunteer assignment,
UN Volunteers will receive a Certificate of Service from UNV. The Certificate
of Service will only be issued after the UN Volunteer has completed the Final
Clearance Checklist, all required administrative actions, and has settled all debts
as applicable with UNV, the Host Entity, or UNDP. The Certificate of Service will
only certify the dates of the UN Volunteer’s service and will not constitute an
endorsement or other indication of the quality of performance, nor substitute areference letter from a supervisor.

65

XIV. Final Separation

XV. Disciplinary
Investigations andReview Process
1. INVESTIGATION OF MISCONDUCT
Allegations of misconduct against a UN Volunteer will be investigated by aduly authorized investigative body. Unsatisfactory work performance does
not constitute misconduct unless it rises to a level of gross negligence orrecklessness.

2. NATIONAL AUTHORITIES
Where there are credible allegations that a UN Volunteer violated the nationallaw of their country of nationality or of the country where the events in question
took place, referral of the allegations may be made to the national authorities of
either country. Such referral will usually occur following disciplinary proceedings
but may occur at any time that credible allegations are considered to havearisen.

3. DISCIPLINARY REVIEW PROCESSa.

Review by the UNV Advisory Panel on Disciplinary Measures and Claims(APDMC)i.

Investigation reports substantiating allegations of misconduct involving
current and former UN Volunteers will be reviewed by the UNV Advisory
Panel on Disciplinary Matters (hereinafter APDMC). The APDMC is anadvisory board only; the UNV Executive Coordinator maintains independent
discretion and authority to make decisions on disciplinary cases without
seeking a recommendation from the APDMC.

ii. In the absence of a report from a UN investigative body, the APDMC may
exceptionally review allegations of misconduct from the administrative66

XV. Disciplinary Investigations and Review Process

findings of anti-fraud departments of UNV-contracted insurance providers,or on the basis of judicial findings from a competent court of law. If a
final investigation report cannot be obtained from the UN investigative
body, the APDMC may exceptionally review the allegations on the basis ofevidentiary material referred by the UN investigative body, if, in the view of
the APDMC, the evidence is clear and reasonable and allows the subject ofthe disciplinary process to understand the allegations raised against him or
her and their basis.
iii. Before the review of the disciplinary matter, the APDMC will a) notify the
UN Volunteer in writing of the allegations against them; b) share a copy of
the investigation report and all accompanying annexes (or the materials
related to the administrative and judicial findings as set out in paragraph
XVI.2(a)(ii) above with the UN Volunteer (redacted as appropriate where
there is a justified need to protect an identity or other information); c)
provide the UN Volunteer the opportunity to respond in writing to theallegations and investigation findings (if applicable) to provide any relevant
information and evidence and to indicate any mitigating factors to beconsidered; d) set a deadline for the UN Volunteer to submit his or her
response to the allegations; and e) where the allegations relate to sexual
exploitation and abuse (SEA) or sexual harassment (SH), inform the UN
Volunteer that a finding of culpability may result in their placement on acentralized UN-wide database, knows as the Clear Check Screening Tool,that is accessible during recruitment or onboarding processes to ensurethat individuals who are separated, or who would have been separated for
SEA or SH had they still been serving as UN Volunteers, are not recruited byor permitted to serve with the United Nations.
iv. If the UN Volunteer comments on the allegations within the permissible
timeframe, the APDMC will consider those comments in its disciplinary
review of the allegations. However, no comments are required by
the APDMC for it to review the disciplinary matter and make its
recommendation to the UNV Executive Coordinator based on theinformation available to it.
v. The APDMC makes a recommendation to the UNV Executive Coordinator
as to the imposition of a disciplinary measure, or the exoneration of the UN
Volunteer.
b.

Non-disciplinary action and reprimandi.

The APDMC does not review performance-related, inter-personal issues oradministrative actions taken related to UN Volunteers (such as performance
evaluations, financial recovery, or administrative leave from service pending
the outcome of a misconduct investigation).

67

XV. Disciplinary Investigations and Review Process

ii. The APDMC may however recommend the issuance of a reprimand
because of the conduct in question, where the evidence obtained by andreviewed by the APDMC regarding the UN Volunteer’s actions does not riseto the level of misconduct, but nevertheless warrants issuing some sort ofadmonition. A reprimand does not constitute a disciplinary sanction, and, inrecommending a reprimand, the APDMC is recommending the exonerationof the UN Volunteer for misconduct.
c.

Legal counsel: A UN Volunteer who is the subject of a disciplinary proceeding
may choose to be represented by legal counsel during the disciplinary review
process at his or her own expense.

d.

Decision on cases of alleged misconduct: Following the review of theallegations by the APDMC as described in Section XVI.2(a)(i) and (ii) above,
the UNV Executive Coordinator decides whether to impose a disciplinary
measure in accordance with the Conditions of Service or to exonerate the UN
Volunteer, taking into account all facts of the case including, as appropriate, therecommendations of the APDMC. The UNV Executive Coordinator may decidethat circumstances require a decision without a review of the allegations anda recommendation of the APDMC or revert the case to the APDMC for further
review. Irrespective of whether the UN Volunteer has already separated for any
other grounds, including but not limited to resignation pending the outcomeof the disciplinary matter, the UNV Executive Coordinator retains the right toissue a decision letter indicating the measure that would have been imposed, if
applicable, had the UN Volunteer not separated.

4. DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONSa.

List of sanctions: Depending on the nature and gravity of the misconduct
and having due regard for the principle of proportionality, the UNV Executive
Coordinator may impose one or more of the following disciplinary measures on
a UN Volunteer:i.

Letter of censure: A letter of censure is a letter indicating that the UN
Volunteer has committed misconduct and states the nature of the
misconduct. The letter of censure is placed in the UN Volunteer’s official fileat UNV Headquarters and becomes part of his or her permanent record.

ii. Non-extension of the current contract: A UN Volunteer whose contract is notextended due to a finding of misconduct cannot serve as a UN Volunteer for
5 years following her/his separation from service.
iii. Early separation for misconduct: Early separation is a termination of the68

XV. Disciplinary Investigations and Review Processcontract with adherence to the standard procedure for termination of
the contract by UNV. A UN Volunteer who has been separated early for
misconduct cannot serve as a UN Volunteer for 10 years following her/his
separation from service.
iv. Summary dismissal: Summary dismissal is a separation from service withimmediate effect. It results in the loss of the Exit Lump Sum. The return
travel entitlements will remain. A UN Volunteer who has been summarily
dismissed cannot serve as a UN Volunteer again.
b.

Recording and information sharing: The disciplinary decision will be put in thepermanent file of the UN Volunteer by UNV and may be shared with other UN
entities and national authorities if deemed appropriate.

5. RECOVERY FOR LOSS OF PROPERTY OR ASSETS
When a UN Volunteer is found to be responsible through willful conduct, grossnegligence, or recklessness for a financial loss, the UN Volunteer is obliged torefund UNV or the Host Entity either partially or in full for any financial loss
suffered by that entity as a result of his or her actions.
Such recovery action does not constitute a disciplinary measure and is distinct
from any disciplinary action being considered or undertaken.

6. REPORTING ALLEGATIONS OF WRONGDOING AND
PROTECTION AGAINST RETALIATIONa.

Affirmative Obligation to Report: UN Volunteers are obliged to report any
breach of UNV’s, UNDP’s or the Host Entity’s regulations and rules and any
acts and allegations of misconduct to their immediate supervisor at the Host
Entity, appropriate investigation, and audit bodies of the Host Entity, UNV or the
Administering Office.

b.

UN Volunteers must fully and truthfully cooperate in any investigation
into allegations of misconduct. Failure to cooperate may itself constitutemisconduct. In addition, UN Volunteers must not interfere with investigations
or witnesses. In case the reporting UN Volunteer believes there is a conflict ofinterest on the part of the person to whom the report is to be made, the UN
Volunteer may report the allegations to the next level of authority.

c.

How to Report: Under the UNV Whistle-blower Policy and Procedures in Annex

69

XV. Disciplinary Investigations and Review Process

UNV teacher Layal Alaa Eddine listens to a girl’s answer in her first grade English
class at Tulkarem school in Borj al Barajneh (Nadim Bou Habib, 2016).
02 UN Volunteers are obliged to report any breach of UN regulations and rules
to officials who have the responsibility to take appropriate action.
UN Volunteers are encouraged to report allegations of misconduct, either
orally or in writing, to the investigative body of the Host Entity, or in cases
where appropriate the supervisor, per the Host Entity applicable guidelines onprotection against retaliation for reporting misconduct or for cooperating with
an authorized fact-finding activity.
Where there is no official procedure for UN Volunteers, access is limited,or delays are encountered in the formal channels within the appropriate
investigation and audit bodies of the Host Entity, UN Volunteers should seek
informal advice from the relevant Office of the Ombudsman. (See Section
XVII.2).
d.

Protection from Retaliation or Retribution: If a UN Volunteer fears retribution
or retaliation after reporting allegations of wrongdoing, or cooperating with anaudit or investigation, he or she should contact the ethics focal point of the Host
Entity to seek protection against retaliation.

70

XVI. Administrative Leave from Service

XVI. Administrative
Leave from Service
1. ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE
Administrative leave occurs when a UN Volunteer is suspended from performing theirfunctions owing to allegations of suspected misconduct pending the completion of
the disciplinary process.
During Administrative Leave the UN Volunteer is not allowed to report for service.
The UN Volunteer may be required to leave the country of assignment during theadministrative leave. In all cases, the UN Volunteer must remain contactable by the
Administering Office. During the administrative leave, the UN Volunteer will continue
to accrue leave and other entitlements, remain fully insured, and continue to receive
VLA. If the UN Volunteer leaves the duty station without authorization, no VLA may be
paid for the period of absence from the duty station, and accrual of leave and otherentitlements will be temporarily suspended.

2. ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE PRECONDITIONSa.

A UN Volunteer may be placed on administrative leave by UNV at any time fromthe moment allegations of misconduct against him or her are reported, until a final
decision is made by the UNV Executive Coordinator. Allegations of misconduct for
which administrative leave may be imposed can only be allegations which:i.

Are reported to UNV or the UNDP Country Office, are under assessment orinvestigation, or are being reviewed during a UNV disciplinary process; orii.

are under assessment or investigation, or are being reviewed by a UN entity since
the allegations are related to conduct prior to the UN Volunteer assignment; oriii. are the subject of a criminal investigation or criminal proceedings by national
authorities.
b.

As a general principle, administrative leave may be contemplated in cases where:i.

the conduct in question and/or the continued presence of the UN Volunteer on
UN premises, in the opinion of UNV, poses or may pose a security or financial

71

XVI. Administrative Leave from Service

risk to UNV/Host Entity or otherwise prejudice UNV/Host Entity’s interests or
reputation; orii.

the continued presence of the UN Volunteer in the office may pose a security orsafety risk to themselves or others; oriii. the UN Volunteer is unable to continue to perform his or her functions effectively,
in view of the allegations, ongoing investigation or proceedings, and the nature of
his or her functions; oriv. continued service of the UN Volunteer would create a risk that he or she may
destroy, conceal, or otherwise tamper with potential evidence or interfere in
any way with the investigation or disciplinary process, including retaliation or
intimidation of a witness; orv.

there is a risk of repetition or continuation of the alleged misconduct.

3. ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE PROCEDUREa.

Administrative leave may only be imposed by the UNV Executive Coordinator or thedelegated authority.

b.

In cases of emergency and where the official with delegated authority is not
immediately available, administrative leave may exceptionally be imposed by the
UNDP Resident Representative, Special Representative of the Secretary-General(SRSG), or if there is no acting Resident Representative in the country, the Officer in
Charge of UNDP in the country.

c.

In this case, the administrative leave may only be imposed for up to 72 hours andthe UNV Executive Coordinator or the respective delegated authority must be
immediately informed of the administrative leave and the reasons thereof. Within 72
hours after the imposition of administrative leave, the UNV Executive Coordinator,or the respective delegate must either uphold or end the Administrative Leave. The
administrative leave will otherwise expire automatically.

d.

The length of the administrative leave must be commensurate with the reasons for its
imposition and only up to a maximum duration of three months. After three months
the administrative leave can only be extended on an exceptional basis by a decisionof the UNV Executive Coordinator. During the administrative leave, the grounds
for administrative leave will be reviewed periodically by UNV Headquarters. The
administrative leave will be rescinded by UNV Headquarters immediately when thebasis for administrative leave no longer exists.

e.

The UN Volunteer must be notified by UNV in writing of the administrative leave andthe reasons thereof.

72

XVII. Recourse Procedures, Dispute Resolution

XVII. Recourse
Procedures,
DisputeResolution
1. INFORMAL RESOLUTION
A UN Volunteer who intends to contest a decision of UNV affecting his or her
assignment or other conditions and circumstances of his or her assignment isencouraged first to raise any such issue directly with UNV or the Host Entity tofind a mutually agreeable informal settlement.
If a UN Volunteer is dissatisfied with an outcome of consultations with UNV or
the Host Entity, they may avail themselves of the services of the relevant United
Nations Ombudsman (see Section XVII.2 below) for informal dispute resolution
and mediation.

2. OFFICE OF THE OMBUDSMANUN Volunteers may avail themselves of the services of the Ombudsman
to resolve grievances by providing appropriate guidance, clarification on
procedures, or any information that may be relevant to the issue at hand.

3. SUSPENSION OF TIME LIMITS
Upon written request of the UN Volunteer, the UNV Executive Coordinator or his/her designate may suspend the time limits for formal recourse procedures for a
specified period to allow for attempts at informal settlement. Absent this explicit
agreement, the applicable timelines are not suspended. If the matter requires

73

XVII. Recourse Procedures, Dispute Resolution

review by the UNDP Administrator, in accordance with Section XVII.5 below,
such request must be made to the UNDP Administrator or his/her designate.

4. STATUTE OF LIMITATION FOR CLAIMS AGAINST UNV
Irrespective of the deadlines set out for recourse against administrativedecisions, a UN Volunteer who has not received an allowance or payment towhich he or she is entitled shall not receive them retroactively unless he or she
has made a written claim within 180 calendar days following the date on which
he or she was entitled to the payment.
In cases of adjustment to previously paid allowances, the 180-calendar day time
limit for claims applies from the date of notice to the last email address provided
by the UN Volunteer in their UN Volunteer file at UNV Headquarters.

5. RECOURSE PROCEDUREUN Volunteers may seek formal recourse against decisions of UNV affecting
the terms of his or her assignment including, but not limited to, entitlements,
separation from service, or disciplinary decisions.
a.

Internal administrative recourse: Except as indicated below, a UN Volunteer
who wishes to contest an administrative decision concerning their terms
of appointment made by UNV shall write to the UNV Executive Coordinator
requesting a review of the administrative decision. The written request must:i.

contain the name of the UN Volunteer;ii. be dated;
ii. contain the consolidated statement of the reasons for which a review isrequested and accompanying rationale as well as any evidence the UN
Volunteer wishes to put forward; andiv. be submitted to the UNV Executive Coordinator within 30 calendar days
from the time the UN Volunteer is notified of the decision to be contested.
b.

The UNV Executive Coordinator’s reply will be provided to the UN Volunteer
within sixty calendar days of receipt of the request for a review. Should thedecision be overturned as a result of the recourse and the impugned decision
has already been executed, the UNV Executive Coordinator may decide on
appropriate means of restitution.

74

XVII. Recourse Procedures, Dispute Resolutionc.

If the decision for which the review is sought was made by the UNV Executive
Coordinator, or if, upon receipt of the UNV Executive Coordinator’s response to
the request for review, the UN Volunteer wishes to contest the decision further,he or she must send a request in writing to the UNDP Administrator within
30 days of receiving the UNV Executive Coordinator’s decision. This written
request must contain the name of the UN Volunteer, a consolidated statementof the reasons for which the review is sought and be sent directly to the UNDP
Administrator with a copy to the UNV Executive Coordinator.

d.

Supplemental submissions made by the UN Volunteer in support of the initial
request will be considered as resetting the date on which the request wasreceived but do not have the effect of suspending the time limit for an appeal
to be made. If the UN Volunteer makes supplemental submissions, the UN
Volunteer may be asked to provide a consolidated claim where, in the opinionof UNDP, the UN Volunteer has introduced additional claims or asserted
contradictory claims or facts.

e.

The UNDP Administrator or his or her designate will review the decision of the
UNV Executive Coordinator and provide the UN Volunteer with a reply withinsixty calendar days of receipt of the request for an administrative review. Should
the decision be overturned as a result of the recourse and if it has already been
executed, the UNDP Administrator or his or her designate may decide on
reinstatement or any other appropriate remedy.

f.

Appealing a decision to the UNV Executive Coordinator or the UNDP
Administrator does not suspend the contested decision, which is executable
immediately.

6. ARBITRATION:
If upon receipt of the UNDP Administrator’s final decision, the UN Volunteer
wishes to contest the decision further, he or she must request arbitration. The
arbitration will be conducted according to the provisions set out below. UN
arbitration procedural costs are generally shared between the parties. Notethat matters involving Privileges and Immunities cannot be considered ordetermined by an arbitrator.
a.

The UN Volunteer who wishes to request arbitration must request in writing(clearly indicating the name and with signature), within 30 calendar days ofreceiving the UNDP Administrator’s final decision. Such a written request
shall be sent to the UNDP Administrator and the UNV Executive Coordinator,

75

XVII. Recourse Procedures, Dispute Resolution

clearly stating the issue to be put to arbitration and quantifying the claim to bearbitrated.
b.

Upon receipt of a request for arbitration as provided in paragraph a. above, a
reply will be sent to the claimant to confirm receipt.

c.

Arbitration will be conducted by a single, qualified, and independent arbitrator
who is not a staff member of a UN organization, designated by agreement ofboth parties.

d.

Any question relating to the qualification or admissibility of an arbitrator will be
resolved by recourse to the United Nations Commission On International Trade
Law (UNCITRAL) rules.

e.

If in-person proceedings are required, the location for arbitration proceedings
shall generally be New York. However, if both parties agree, the arbitration
proceedings may be conducted in other locations. The arbitrator may apportion
costs pursuant to UNCITRAL rules.

f.

The arbitration proceedings will be conducted in English, French, or Spanish,
and will be limited to the written submissions provided by both parties. The
arbitrator may exceptionally authorize oral proceedings if necessary, upona finding of objective reasons for doing so. Any costs related to the needfor translation will be borne by the party requesting the document. Either party
may appeal to the arbitrator regarding the need to furnish a requested
document.

g.

No arbitration proceedings will commence without both parties furnishing adeposit sufficient for the arbitrator to commence proceedings as indicated by
the arbitrator. Upon written request by one of the parties setting forth valid
reasons to the contrary, the arbitrator may decide otherwise.

h.

The proceedings of the arbitration will include consideration of the following
written submissions:i.

the claimant’s statement will be submitted within 45 days of receiving
notification of the establishment of the arbitrator though the arbitrator
may extend the time limits;

ii. the answer by the respondent, which will be submitted within 45 days ofreceiving the claimant’s statement though the arbitrator, may extend thetime limits;76

XVII. Recourse Procedures, Dispute Resolution

iii. such rebuttal as the claimant may wish to make within 30 days of receipt of
the arbitrator’s answer, unless the arbitrator orders otherwise;
iv. such reply as the respondent may wish to make within 30 days of receipt of
the claimant’s rebuttal, unless the arbitrator orders otherwise; and/or
v. any other statement or information supplied at the request of the arbitrator.
i.

The arbitrator will decide on any extension of the time limits for written
submissions above upon showing a reasonable basis for providing such an
extension. The other party to the arbitration will have an opportunity to present
any objections to such an extension, within the time limits set by the arbitrator
for doing so.

j.

Either party may request in writing that the arbitrator is periodically provided
with an advance against future costs and that arbitration will only proceed
when the appropriate advance from both parties has been received. The
arbitrator will make the final decision on any such request.

k.

Subject to the conditions and limitations indicated in the preceding sections
concerning arbitration, arbitration proceedings will be conducted according to
UNCITRAL rules.

l.

The decision of the arbitrator will constitute the final settlement of the disputeand will be binding upon both parties.

m. If the UN Volunteer does not respond within 90 calendar days after the
respondent has proposed an arbitrator for appointment, the arbitration request
will be closed. Thereafter, if the UN Volunteer does not respond to written
inquires or initiate required action within 180 calendar days of such an inquiry
being sent or such an obligation arising, the arbitration request will be closed.
Arbitration requests closed as a consequence of either situation describedabove may not be reopened.

77

XVIII. Special Programme Initiatives

XVIII. Special
Programme
Initiatives
1. UN VOLUNTEERS IN SPECIAL PROGRAMMEINITIATIVES
UNV is mandated to promulgate innovative initiatives that are responsive tovolunteer-specific needs of the United Nations system as well as donor entities,
non-governmental organizations, and private-sector stakeholders. These Special
Programme Initiatives are governed by the related policy documents crafted toaddress the desired programmatic aims and broader SDG outcomes in line with
UNV guiding principles.
Special Programme Initiatives policy documents may be embeddedwith particular terms and conditions that amend the administration andthe functions of UN Volunteers. If these Special Programme Initiative’s
administration and entitlements differ from the standard administration andentitlements set out in the CoS, they must be set out in the DoA, Offer andContract.
Special Programme Initiatives should be viewed as an extension of theapplicable Conditions of Service for UN Volunteers. Thus, the Conditionsof Service is the primary controlling document, and promulgated policy
documents for Special Programme Initiatives of UN Volunteers are secondary.
UNV promulgates the programmatic and policy document and specific terms
and conditions of the Special Programme Initiative and communicates thempublicly and to UN Volunteers through the Offer.

2. FULLY FUNDED VOLUNTEERS
The benefits and entitlements of fully funded UN Volunteers are generallyaligned with the Conditions of Service. Any variance from the COS will be
specifically detailed in the DoA, Offer, and Contract. Thus, the Conditions

78

XVIII. Special Programme Initiatives

UN Youth Volunteer Blanca de la Cruz Vicente conducts a participatory session with
communities within a joint project led by UNDP in Guatemala (UNV, 2016).
of Service is the primary controlling document, and promulgated policy
documents or donor agreements for fully funded UN Volunteers are secondary.
It is understood that all assignment-related costs generally borne by the Host
Entity will be absorbed by the funding partner. In cases of arrangements madedirectly by or with the funding partner, the fully funded UN Volunteer may berequired to submit related claims directly to the funding partner.

79

Annexes

Annexes

80

A-0I

A-0I
SPECIAL MEASURES FOR PROTECTION FROM SEXUAL
EXPLOITATION AND SEXUAL ABUSEThe UN Secretary-General Bulletin on Special Measures for Protection from
Sexual Abuse and Exploitation ST/SGB/2003/13, as updated from time to time,
will apply to UN Volunteers mutatis mutandis. See below:
Special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and sexual abuse
The Secretary-General, for the purpose of preventing and addressing casesof sexual exploitation and sexual abuse, and taking into consideration
General Assembly resolution 57/306 of 15 April 2003, “Investigation into sexual
exploitation of refugees by aid workers in West Africa”, promulgates thefollowing in consultation with Executive Heads of separately administeredorgans and programmes of the United Nations:

SECTION 1: DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of the present bulletin, the term “sexual exploitation” means
any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power,
or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily,socially, or politically from the sexual exploitation of another. Similarly, the term
“sexual abuse” means the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual
nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions.

SECTION 2: SCOPE OF APPLICATION
2.1

The present bulletin shall apply to all staff of the United Nations, including staff
of separately administered organs and programmes of the United Nations.

2.2 United Nations forces conducting operations under United Nations commandand control are prohibited from committing acts of sexual exploitation andsexual abuse, and have a particular duty of care towards women and children,
pursuant to section 7 of Secretary-General’s bulletin ST/SGB/1999/13, entitled“Observance by United Nations forces of international humanitarian law”.
2.3 Secretary-General’s bulletin ST/SGB/253, entitled “Promotion of equal treatmentof men and women in the Secretariat and prevention of sexual harassment”,
and the related administrative instruction set forth policies and procedures for

81

A-0I

handling cases of sexual harassment in the Secretariat of the United Nations.
Separately administered organs and programmes of the United Nations havepromulgated similar policies and procedures.

SECTION 3: PROHIBITION OF SEXUAL EXPLOITATION
AND SEXUAL ABUSE
3.1

Sexual exploitation and sexual abuse violate universally recognized international
legal norms and standards and have always been unacceptable behaviour andprohibited conduct for United Nations staff. Such conduct is prohibited by theUnited Nations Staff Regulations and Rules.

3.2 In order to further protect the most vulnerable populations, especiallywomen and children, the following specific standards which reiterate existing
general obligations under the United Nations Staff Regulations and Rules, arepromulgated:(a) Sexual exploitation and sexual abuse constitute acts of serious misconduct andare therefore grounds for disciplinary measures, including summary dismissal;(b) Sexual activity with children (persons under the age of 18) is prohibited
regardless of the age of majority or age of consent locally. Mistaken belief in theage of a child is not a defence;(c)

Exchange of money, employment, goods or services for sex, including sexual
favours or other forms of humiliating, degrading or exploitative behaviour, isprohibited. This includes any exchange of assistance that is due to beneficiaries
of assistance;(d) Sexual relationships between United Nations staff and beneficiaries ofassistance, since they are based on inherently unequal power dynamics,
undermine the credibility and integrity of the work of the United Nations andare strongly discouraged;(e)Where a United Nations staff member develops concerns or suspicions
regarding sexual exploitation or sexual abuse by a fellow worker, whether in thesame agency or not and whether or not within the United Nations system, heor she must report such concerns via established reporting mechanisms;(f)United Nations staff are obliged to create and maintain an environment thatprevents sexual exploitation and sexual abuse. Managers at all levels have a

82

A-0I

particular responsibility to support and develop systems that maintain thisenvironment.
3.3 The standards set out above are not intended to be an exhaustive list. Other
types of sexually exploitive or sexually abusive behaviour may be grounds foradministrative action or disciplinary measures, including summary dismissal,
pursuant to the United Nations Staff Regulations and Rules.

SECTION 4: DUTIES OF HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS,
OFFICES AND MISSIONS
4.1

The Head of Department, Office, or Mission, as appropriate, shall be responsible
for creating and maintaining an environment that prevents sexual exploitationand sexual abuse, and shall take appropriate measures for this purpose. In
particular, the Head of Department, Office or Mission shall inform his or her staffof the contents of the present bulletin and ascertain that each staff member
receives a copy thereof.

4.2 The Head of Department, Office or Mission shall be responsible for taking
appropriate action in cases where there is reason to believe that any of thestandards listed in section 3.2 above have been violated or any behaviour
referred to in section 3.3 above has occurred. This action shall be taken inaccordance with established rules and procedures for dealing with cases of staff
misconduct.
4.3 The Head of Department, Office or Mission shall appoint an official, at a
sufficiently high level, to serve as a focal point for receiving reports on cases ofsexual exploitation and sexual abuse. With respect to Missions, the staff of theMission and the local population shall be properly informed of the existence
and role of the focal point and of how to contact him or her. All reports of sexual
exploitation and sexual abuse shall be handled in a confidential manner in orderto protect the rights of all involved. However, such reports may be used, where
necessary, for action taken pursuant to section 4.2 above.
4.4 The Head of Department, Office or Mission shall not apply the standard
prescribed in section 3.2 (b), where a staff member is legally married to someone
under the age of 18 but over the age of majority or consent in their country of
citizenship.
4.5 The Head of Department, Office or Mission may use his or her discretion in
applying the standard prescribed in section 3.2 (d), where beneficiaries of

83

A-0I

assistance are over the age of 18 and the circumstances of the case justify an
exception.
4.6 The Head of Department, Office or Mission shall promptly inform the
Department of Management of its investigations into cases of sexual
exploitation and sexual abuse, and the actions it has taken as a result of suchinvestigations.

SECTION 5: REFERRAL TO NATIONAL AUTHORITIES
If, after proper investigation, there is evidence to support allegations of sexual
exploitation or sexual abuse, these cases may, upon consultation with the Officeof Legal Affairs, be referred to national authorities for criminal prosecution.

SECTION 6: COOPERATIVE ARRANGEMENTS WITHNON-UNITED NATIONS ENTITIES OR INDIVIDUALS
6.1

When entering into cooperative arrangements with non-United Nations entities
or individuals, relevant United Nations officials shall inform those entities orindividuals of the standards of conduct listed in section 3, and shall receive a
written undertaking from those entities or individuals that they accept thesestandards.

6.2 The failure of those entities or individuals to take preventive measures against
sexual exploitation or sexual abuse, to investigate allegations thereof, or to takecorrective action when sexual exploitation or sexual abuse has occurred, shallconstitute grounds for termination of any cooperative arrangement with theUnited Nations.

SECTION 7: ENTRY INTO FORCE
The present bulletin shall enter into force on 15 October 2003.

84

A-02

A-02
PROTECTION AGAINST RETALIATION FOR REPORTINGMISCONDUCT AND FOR COOPERATING WITH DULYAUTHORIZED AUDITS OR INVESTIGATIONS(UNV WHISTLEBLOWER POLICY AND PROCEDURES
BASED ON ST/SGB/2017/2/REV.1)
PURPOSE AND SCOPEThe UN seeks to protect individuals who in good faith report violations of
the UNV Code of Conduct or other instances of wrongdoing or potential
wrongdoing within UNV or the Host Entity. The UNV Whistleblower Policy
and Procedures set forth below are intended to encourage and enable UN
Volunteers to raise concerns in good faith within the Host Entity and UNV
without fear of retaliation or adverse personnel action.
The terms of this policy apply to UN Volunteers as well as clarify with Host
Entities the inclusion of UN Volunteers into Host Entity structures based on ST/
SGB/2017/2/Rev.1. These rules become effective on all parties from the applicable
Commencement of Service date.

DEFINITIONS*“UN Personnel”: UN Volunteers, any UN staff member (regardless of the typeof appointment or its duration), interns, international and local consultants,
corporate contractors, and all UN peacekeeping missions’ personnel.
“Host Entity”: the UN entity that has requested the services of and hosts the UN
Volunteer.
“Good Faith”: Information concerning wrongdoing or potential wrongdoing is
disclosed in “good faith” when the individual making the disclosure reasonably
believes such information to be true and reasonably believes that it constitutes
wrongdoing or potential wrongdoing.
“Whistleblower”: Any UN Volunteer who in good faith discloses information
concerning wrongdoing by UN personnel, or concerning the business of UNV or
the Host Entity itself.

85

A-02

“Wrongdoing”: Failure to comply with obligations under the applicable legal
framework, including, but not limited to Codes of Conduct and administrative
instructions, corruption, fraud, criminal misconduct, waste, conflict of interest,
intentional reporting of false or misleading information, or abuse of authority
engaged in by UN personnel.
“Retaliation”: within the meaning of this policy means any direct or indirect
detrimental action that adversely affects the contractual relationship or working
conditions of an individual, where such action has been recommended,threatened or taken for the purpose of punishing, intimidating or injuring an
individual because that individual engaged in an activity protected by thepresent policy.
“Personnel action”: Any action affecting the UN Volunteer’s contractual rights
and entitlements, early termination, or evaluation of performance.
“Authorized fact-finding activity” within the meaning of this policy includes any
authorized audit, evaluation, investigation, inspection, or management review.

CLAUSE 1: RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF UN
VOLUNTEERSAll UN Volunteers have a duty to report misconduct and to assist in authorizedfact-finding activities upon request. UN Volunteers have an accompanying rightto be protected from retaliation. Protection from retaliation will apply to any UN
Volunteer who:i.

Discovers or has direct knowledge of wrongdoing or potential wrongdoing
concerning the failure of one or more UN personnel to comply with his or
her obligations under the Charter of the United Nations, the UNV Code of
Conduct (where applicable), Staff Regulations and Staff Rules or other relevant
administrative issuances of the Host Entity, the Financial Regulations and Rulesor the Standards of Conduct of the International Civil Service, including any
request or instruction from any UN Personnel member to violate the abovementioned regulations, rules or standards. The individual must make the reportin good faith and must submit information or evidence to support a reasonable
belief that misconduct has occurred; or

86

A-02

ii.

Cooperates in good faith with a duly authorized fact-finding activity.

CLAUSE 2: REPORTING WRONGDOING
A UN Volunteer shall report such activity in accordance with the following
procedures:i.

The UN Volunteer shall disclose any information concerning wrongdoing
either orally or in writing to report to the investigative body of the Host Entity,
or in cases where appropriate the supervisor, per the Host Entity applicableguidelines on protection against retaliation for reporting misconduct or forcooperating with an authorized fact-finding activity. Under the UNV Whistleblower Policy and Procedures, the UN Volunteer is obliged to report any breachof UN regulations and rules to officials who have the responsibility to takeappropriate action.

ii.

All UN Volunteers who discover or have knowledge of wrongdoing shall reportsuch wrongdoing in a prompt and timely manner.

iii.

The UN Volunteer shall keep the substance of his or her allegations confidential
to the best extent possible, even after the matter has been adjudicated upon.

iv.

Should a UN Volunteer believe in good faith that disclosing information to the
Host Entity pursuant to Clause 2(i) above would likely subject him or her toadverse personnel action or be ineffective, or if the ethical breach involves a
direct supervisor, then the UN Volunteer may instead disclose the information
to the United Nations Ombudsman for the United Nations Funds andProgrammes for informal advice on how to best proceed. See section XVII.2.

v.

The dissemination of unsubstantiated rumors or the submission of an allegation
or report of suspected misconduct that is intentionally false or misleading is not
a protected activity under this policy. Intentionally making a false report, verballyor in writing, constitutes misconduct for which disciplinary measures may be
imposed.

vi.

No UN Volunteer who in good faith discloses potential violations of the UNV
Code of Conduct as well as the applicable Host Entity Code of Conduct or

87

A-02

other instances of potential wrongdoing, shall suffer harassment, retaliation, or
adverse personnel action by UNV and/or the Host Entity.

CLAUSE 3: PROTECTION FROM RETALIATION OR
INTERFERENCE
The legitimate application of regulations, rules or administrative policies,
issuances or procedures, or the mere expression of disagreement,
admonishment, criticism, or a similar expression regarding work performance,
conduct or related issues within a supervisory or similar relationship, do notconstitute retaliation from which protection may be sought under this policy.
However, in applying such regulations, rules and administrative policies andprocedures, UNV and Host Entity management must be able to show by clear
and convincing evidence that the same action would have been taken absent
the protected activity.
No UNV personnel or Host Entity personnel shall retaliate against any
whistleblower for the disclosure of potential wrongdoing, whether throughthreat, coercion, or abuse of authority; and, no UNV or Host Entity personnel
shall interfere with the right of any other UN Volunteer by any improper means
aimed at deterring disclosure of potential wrongdoing.
Any attempts at retaliation or interference are strictly prohibited and:i.

In circumstances when a UN Volunteer makes allegations of retaliation against
a whistleblower or interference with an individual seeking to disclose potential
wrongdoing with the Host Entity it is the responsibility of the Host Entity to:(i) provide information on rights to the UN Volunteer concerned and (ii) liaise
with the Host Entity ethics or whistleblowing protection focal persons to ensurethat the rights of the UN Volunteer are not infringed upon and that the formal
channels of whistleblower protection are afforded to the UN Volunteer in thesame manner as staff.

ii.

UNV management will ensure that full and effective whistleblower protection
to serving and separated UN Volunteers is afforded by the Host Entity. UNV’srole will generally be limited to providing assistance, sharing information, andworking through the Host Entity as the primary responsible party.

iii.

UNV will generally not act on behalf of UN Volunteers in reporting allegationsof misconduct of personnel at Host Entity including misconduct of other UN
Volunteers as this must be conducted within the official channels of the Host
Entity. UNV may follow up with the UN Volunteer and the ethics focal persons

88

A-02

of the Host Entity to establish whether effective protection against retaliation
has been afforded and/or whether the alleged harassment/retaliation has been
investigated.
iv.

UNV will implement any measures in terms of the contract and assignmentof the UN Volunteer as necessary and agreed on with the UN Volunteer,such as a reassignment to another duty station and or functional area whencircumstances are warranted as decided by the UNV Executive Coordinator.

v.

UNV will keep all information it receives on individual cases and generally
in connection with this policy strictly confidential. It will only share suchinformation as strictly necessary for the implementation of this policy and theeffective management of a case.

CLAUSE 4: FINAL PROVISIONSThe procedures contained in this policy are established without prejudice tothe right of the relevant officials of the Host Entity to act on their own initiative
to prevent, investigate or impose disciplinary measures against individuals
engaged in retaliation.
This policy has been aligned with ST/SGB/2017/2/Rev.1 (dated 28 November2017) entitled “Protection against retaliation for reporting misconduct and forcooperating with duly authorized audits or investigations”. This revised policy
enters into force on the day it is issued.

89

A-03

A-03
GUIDELINES FOR THE CLAIMS PANEL FOR LOSSOF OR DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY DUE TO
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
1. PURPOSE
Within the limits and under the terms of the Conditions of Service for UN
Volunteers, eligible UN Volunteers may be entitled to reasonable compensation
if their personal effects are lost or damaged as a direct result of an emergency
created by war, civil unrest, or natural disaster or in other emergencies causedby force majeure as determined by UNV. Such an emergency must haveoccurred in a place where the UN Volunteer had been authorized to travel
to and was obliged to be to discharge her/his official duties. The purpose ofthis instruction is to define the limits, terms, and conditions governing suchcompensation and to set forth the procedures for the examination of claims
submitted in connection with such loss or damage.

2. PROCEDURE FOR FILING OF INVENTORIES ANDSUBMISSION OF CLAIMSa.

No later than six weeks after Commencement of Service, the UN Volunteer
will submit a duly completed inventory of her/his personal effects to the UNV
Administrating Office. The UNV Administering Office will certify and retain
a copy in the UN Volunteer’s personal file and ask her/him to keep a copy forhis/ her own reference. UN Volunteers are required to update the inventory list
to reflect current assets. Items not included in the inventory form may not becompensated.

b.

In the event of loss or damage, only the items listed on the form will be taken
into consideration for compensation, unless it can be proved that these wereacquired after filing the last inventory.

c.

When loss or damage occurs the UN Volunteer will submit a claim to the
UNV Administering Office, specifying the exact circumstances of the incident
that caused the loss or damage, of the items, the value, and other relevant
details such as a police report, as appropriate. The claim will be handled by
UNV Advisory Panel on Disciplinary Measures and Claims (APDMC) with any
comments/ recommendations of the applicable Host Entity.

90

A-03

d.

The claim must be submitted within one year of the date of loss or damage.
Claims submitted after the one-year deadline will not be considered.

3. ENTITLEMENT TO COMPENSATIONa.

Maximum compensation is limited to a $5000 total per claim for single UN
Volunteers and $8000 per claim for those with recognized primary dependents.

b.

No single article in a claim can exceed a maximum value of $1000.

c.

Reasonable compensation is based strictly on the value of items that are
deemed necessary for general living standards during the assignment. Luxury,
discretionary or extravagant items are not covered. No compensation will
be paid for any loss or damage occasioned by the claimant’s negligence or
misconduct.

d.

Sunglasses are limited to a maximum of $150 and watches limited to a
maximum of $350.

e.

Compensation will not apply to loss of or damage to personal property resulting
from theft or burglary. UN Volunteers are advised to subscribe to an insurance
scheme against such losses.

f.

The personal effects of a UN Volunteer are deemed to include the personal
effects of her/his recognized primary dependents who are authorized by UNV tojoin, and have joined, her/him in the country of assignment.

g.

These instructions will not apply to loss of or damage to the UN Volunteer’s
personal effects during their transportation to and from the country of
recruitment/home country and the country of assignment. Such loss ordamage should be dealt with within the provisions of the insurance coverage as
arranged by the UN Volunteer herself/himself.

h.

No compensation will be paid for loss of or damage to automobiles, motorcycles,
motors of all types and their accessories, heirlooms, jewelry, securities, tickets
or documents, or any other such article that in the opinion of UNV is notconsidered to have been reasonably acquired by the UN Volunteer under
existing circumstances and volunteer conditions.

i.

Compensation for loss of cash will be limited up to $500 for a single UN
Volunteer and up to $700 for those with dependents at the dutyj.

In line with paragraph a. above, compensation will be paid for loss or damage
due to any one claim incident, provided that the maximum allowablecompensation does not exceed the limits.

k.

As a guide to the amount of compensation for claims, the UNV APDMC will
apply the following depreciation rates:

91

A-03

i.

Clothing: 10 percent per annum with a maximum of 60 percent

ii. Furniture: 5 percent per annum with a maximum of 80 percent
iii. Equipment, appliances, electronics, machinery: 10 percent per annum witha maximum of 80 percent
iv. Other items: 10 percent per annum with a maximum of 60 percent

4. PAYMENT OF COMPENSATIONThe UNV APDMC will examine the case against the background of all the
relevant information, documentation and comments provided and advise
the amount of compensation, if any, to be paid by the UN Host Entity. The UN
Volunteer will sign a discharge form absolving UNV from any further liability inconsideration of the compensation received.

5. FINAL DECISION ON COMPENSATION
The decision of UNV is final regarding setting reasonable compensation for thelost or damaged personal effects. It is not subject to any arbitration.

92

A-04

A-04
GUIDELINES ON SECURITY RELOCATION/EVACUATION
The guidelines are valid for regular UN Volunteer assignments. These
guidelines may be superseded by special operations and emergencies as
determined by the prevailing conditions determined by the SRSG/Security
Coordinator and/or UN Designated Official.
a.

UN Volunteers will continue to benefit from and shall be covered by the security
arrangements in place in their country of assignment as established by the UN
Security Coordinator.

b.

UN Volunteers will follow and respect the guidelines, security plans, and otherdirectives issued by the UN Designated Official.

c.

Should relocation/evacuation become necessary, UN Volunteers will be
evacuated together with other international UN staff to the home country, asafe-haven, or to any other destination approved by the UN Security Coordinator.
The safe-haven may be designated a) within the country of assignment or b)
outside the country of assignment.

RELOCATION WITHIN THE COUNTRY OF ASSIGNMENT
If relocation should take place within the country of duty station, UNV will follow
the directives issued by the UN Security Coordinator/Designated Official. The
normal UN DSA rates for in-country travel as applicable to UN Volunteers arepayable.

EVACUATION OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY OF
ASSIGNMENTa.

While at the place of safe-haven, home country, or a third country, UN
Volunteers and their eligible accompanying dependents will be paid thefollowing additional Evacuation Allowance (EA):i.

In respect of the UN Volunteer: US$ 200 per day during the first 30 days
and US$ 150 per day from the 31st day until the UN Volunteer returns to theduty station, or is reassigned to another location, or until two months haveelapsed following an evacuation, whichever is soonest.

93

A-04

ii. In respect of each eligible accompanying dependent residing at the duty
station: US$ 100 for the dependent partner in a marriage, recognizedpartnership or union and each recognized dependent child during the first
30 days and, US$ 75 per day from the 31st day until the UN Volunteer returns
to the duty station, or is reassigned to another location, or until two months
have elapsed following an evacuation, whichever is soonest.
iii. If the UN Volunteer is authorized to return to the duty station and someor all eligible accompanying dependents are not authorized to return or
unable to return due to specific “Family Restrictions” that may be in force
for security purposes, or if the UN Volunteer is sent on mission (and receives
relevant DSA), the first eligible accompanying dependent will be entitled tothe higher rate of evacuation allowance (US$ 200 or US$ 150, as applicable).
b.

The period of evacuation to a safe-haven, home country, or third country should
not exceed 60 calendar days. Within this period, a decision should be made as
to whether the UN Volunteer will be authorized to return to the duty station orreassigned to another duty station.

c.

All UN Volunteer entitlements shall continue to be paid and all leave continue
to accrue during the period of evacuation based on the official duty station.
The official duty station may be changed to the evacuation duty station at therequest of the UN Host Entity or the Designated Official.

d.

When security evacuation/relocation occurs while the UN Volunteer is on any
other leave entitlement outside of the duty station then the security evacuation
status starts from the date the UN Volunteer was expected to return to the duty
station. Prior to returning to the duty station, the UN Volunteer will be advisedby the Host Entity either to join the safe-haven or remain outside the duty
station country until further notice.

e.

As far as possible, the maximum period of evacuation will not exceed twomonths i.e. from the time the UN Volunteer is relocated/evacuated from theduty station until the date that notice of termination of the assignment isserved. Within this period, UNV, in consultation with the respective UN Entities,
will take the necessary administrative measures to terminate the assignmentsof UN Volunteers who cannot be reassigned per Section XIII.5(b)(v) and (vi).

f.

In accordance with UNV Conditions of Service, the notice period for termination
will depend on the duration of the current assignment. Such notice may beserved at any time following relocation/evacuation when UNV, in consultation
with the UN Entities, has determined that the evacuated UN Volunteer cannot

94

A-04

be reassigned and that the security situation will not permit, at least in the near
future, the return of the UN Volunteer to the duty station.
g.

During the notice period, the UN Volunteer will continue to receive their VLA at
the duty station rate and relocation or evacuation allowance.

h.

Loss and damage to personal effects that remain at the duty station will becompensated in accordance with established administrative guidelines for the
APDMC. UN Volunteers are reminded of their responsibility to update a list of
their itemized personal effects and their value. This list is used by the respective
compensation committees of the organization to determine compensation in
the event of loss or damage to personal effects.

i.

If the UN Volunteer’s assignment has been terminated and the UN Volunteer
repatriated, costs related to the shipment of personal effects remaining at the
duty station will be deducted from the authorized Exit Lump Sum allowance. If
the UN Volunteer decides to return to the duty station after being repatriatedthe UN Volunteer will bear all costs and associated risks.
Overview of Security Evacuation Allowances
Area of Evacuation

Applicable SEA rate/

Eligible accompanying

Applicable SEA rate/

staff member alone

dependant

Outside the duty station

US$ 200 per day for up

For family normallycountry (safe haven,to 30 days; thereafter

residing at the duty

home country, third

US$ 150 per day (fromstation: US$ 100 per

country)

the second through the

day for up to 30 days;

second month)

Thereafter US$ 75 per day

DSA of location applies

50% of applicable DSA

staff

Relocation withincountry of duty station

per each eligible family
memberNote: The UN Volunteer receives VLA applicable to the country of assignment
during all “statuses”.

95

A-05

A-05
ELIGIBILITY, BENEFITS & ENTITLEMENTS TABLEFOR CATEGORIES OF UN VOLUNTEERS

International

National

University

YouthSpecialist

ExpertCommunity

University

YouthSpecialist

Expert

Age

18-26

18-26

27-80

35-80

18+

18-26

18-26

27+

35+

Experience (years)

0-3

0-3

3-15

15+

0

0-3

0-3

3-15

15+

Minimum Duration(months)

3-6

6-24

3-48

3-48

3-48

3-6

6-24

3-48

3-48

Entry Lump Sum$4,000$50$400

Assignment Travel
Ticket120% DLC Quote under UNV Travel
Methodology

N/A

When moving $200 as Travel Lump Sum

Monthly Living
Allowance

Wellbeing
Differential (WBD)

Per UNV MLA Methodology
WBD A - $500 a monthWBD A – 15% MLA

WBD B - $1000 a month

WBD B – 30% MLA

WBD A - Non-Family Duty Stations and D-Hardship Classification
WBD B – Non-Family Duty Station and E-Hardship Classification or Danger Pay Duty Station
Non-Classified Duty Stations will reference the capital city of the Country of Assignment

Medical, life,
disability,
dismemberment,
and malicious acts
insurance

UN Volunteer insured during service
One-month post service extension of medical insurance provided to UN Volunteers repatriating upon
contract expiry

Security

100% reimbursement per UNDSS rules

Dependents (up to3) Travel

N/A

120% DLC Quote

Dependents (upto 3) Medical
Insurance

N/A

Insured

N/A
N/A

Induction &Assignment
Training (onsite,
virtual &online learning
programmes)

Provided by UNV

In-service Training

Provided by Host Entity

Annual Leave

Insured2.5 days accrued per calendar month
30 days certified sick leave

Sick Leave

7 days uncertified sick leave / family leave (see below)
After 20 days of sick leave referral to UN Medical Services

96 of sick and annual leave as per Host Entity
Separation after exhaustion

A-05

International
University

YouthSpecialist

ExpertNational
Community

University

YouthSpecialist

ExpertDepends on Duty Station
Classifications and R&R
Framework
H, A, B and C receive 1
point a monthHome Visit Leave
Point Accrual

N/A

D and E and within ICSC
R&R Framework receive 1
point a month

N/A

D or E but without R&R
receive 2 points a month
Eligibility per UNDP
POPPs
Family Leave

7 days taken from uncertified sick leave

Training &Learning Leave

10 working days per consecutive 12 months

Maternity Leave

16 weeks

Paternity Leave

10 days

Rest &
Recuperation

As per Host Entity policy

Reassignment
Lump Sum$2000 + travel ticket (120% DLC)

N/A

$200 Travel Lump Sum

Exit Allowance$225/month

N/A

1 VLA/12 months

Repatriation Travel
Ticket120% DLC

N/A

When moving $200

N/A

Medical coverageafter assignment

1 Month for UN Volunteer only (upon confirmation of repatriation immediately after Contract expiry)

United Nations
Security
Management
System (UNSMS)
Coverage

Full inclusion, including eligible dependents

United Nations
Security
Management
System (UNSMS)
Coverage for
Dependents
Security
Evacuation
Allowance (SEA)
SEA forAccompanying
Dependents

N/A

Medical
Evacuation Travel
Ticket and DSA

N/ACovered$200/day up to 30 days & $150/day as at 2ndmonth

In line with locally recruited UN staff members, per
Designated Officer (DO) instructions in the County ofAssignment. In absence of such instruction reference to
SEA for international UN Volunteers.

$100/day up to 30 days &$75/day as at 2nd month

In line with locally recruited UN staff
members, per Designated Officer (DO)
instructions in the County of Assignment.
In absence of such instruction reference
to SEA for international UN Volunteers.

N/A

Security
Relocation
Security
Relocation for
Accompanying
Dependents

Covered

DSA paid for UN Volunteer and/or dependents upon
reception of National Staff Security Risk Mitigation
Measures circular

DSA of location applies

N/A

N/A

50% DSA of location
appliesN/A

In line with locally recruited UN staff
members, per Designated Officer (DO)
instructions in the County of Assignment

Per applicable UNDP POPP Medical Evacuation Travel

97

A-05

98