Review the United Nations system chart, and identify where your new role “fits” in the larger Organization.
This induction content is for those who are joining an entity (e.g. office or department) within the United Nations Secretariat.
Former Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson always carried the UN Charter in his pocket. Why? To remind himself that this is an Organization built around values and principles.
Please read this charter - as signed in 1945 - with these questions in mind:
- Which parts do you find the most inspiring?
- Which parts most closely connect with the work you will do?
You may also want to review two other key United Nations Documents:
When you join the United Nations, you will sign a Declaration of Office (or Oath of Office), committing to the Standards of Conduct as an International Civil Servant. Specific responsibilities of UN Staff Members are International Civil Servants can be found in the UN Staff Regulations and Rules, ST/SGB/2018/1/Rev.1 and ST/SGB/2016/9, "Status, basic rights and duties of United Nations staff members".
Do you know your primary responsibilities? Take this 5-question quiz to find out.
Some duty stations have local organizations that coordinate networking meetings and other events for spouses of UN staff. Ask your HR Partner if there is one near you.
Some that are well-established include:
United Nations official holidays vary according to location. By clicking on the relevant location, please check and note on your calendar which holidays apply to you. Also, keep these different calendars in mind if you later need to plan meetings or events with other UN locations.
Explore this interactive map to find UN holidays by location.