It is unique within the UN family and as an international volunteer undertaking. There are about 2,000 qualified, experienced and motivated women and men of over 100 nationalities currently serving in developing countries as volunteer specialists and field workers. They are professionals who work on a peer basis.
Volunteers also share and exchange ideas, skills and experience.
Agriculture, health and education feature prominently, as do social conditions, community development, vocational training, industry, transport and population. Over the years, they have served in about 140 countries. Nearly three quarters serve in the world's poorest nations - the Least Developed, the Landlocked and the Small Island economies. Half work outside capital cities, frequently in remote towns and villages. This is in response to expressed needs, and it reflects the commitment which volunteers bring.