Can I reskill for a United Nations job?

Can I reskill for a United Nations job?

What skills do I need to thrive in the UN System in 2025 and beyond?

The United Nations (UN) is one of the most influential and diverse international organizations in the world. With its mission to promote peace, human rights, sustainable development, and humanitarian aid, the UN system attracts thousands of professionals globally. But many ask: “Can I reskill for a UN job if I don’t have a traditional international relations background?” The answer is a resounding yes — if you’re strategic.

Whether you’re transitioning from the private sector, academia, or a national government role, reskilling is not only possible, it’s becoming increasingly essential.

Why reskilling matters for the UN

The UN is evolving rapidly in response to global crises, climate change, digital transformation, and emerging technologies. This means new types of roles are opening up across its many agencies — from the UNDP and WHO to UNICEF and UNHCR.

Reskilling allows you to align your expertise with the UN’s current operational needs, especially in technical, digital, and field-based functions.

1. Core skills the UN looks for (across all roles)

Regardless of your field, all UN candidates are assessed against these UN core values and competencies:

• Integrity

• Professionalism

• Respect for diversity

And key competencies like:

• Communication

• Teamwork

• Planning & organizing

• Client orientation

• Accountability

These are often tested through competency-based interviews, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

2. Top in-demand skills you can reskill into

Here are high-impact areas where reskilling can open doors into the UN:

Digital & Data Skills

• Data analysis and visualization (Excel, Power BI, Python, R)

• GIS and mapping tools (ArcGIS, QGIS)

• Digital communications (content strategy, social media for development)

• Cybersecurity and data protection

Climate & Sustainability

• Climate policy and adaptation strategies

• Sustainable development (SDG knowledge)

• Environmental impact assessment

• Circular economy and green finance

Project & Program Management

• Results-based management (RBM)

• Monitoring & evaluation (M&E)

• Budgeting for development programs

• Agile or PRINCE2 methodologies

Advocacy, Human Rights & Inclusion

• Gender mainstreaming and intersectionality

• Disability inclusion

• Refugee and migration policy

• Humanitarian law and human rights frameworks

Field-Specific & Cross-Cutting Skills

• Logistics and supply chain (for WFP, UNHCR)

• Public health (WHO, UNICEF)

• Education in emergencies (UNESCO, UNHCR)

• Conflict resolution and peacebuilding (DPPA, UN Peacekeeping)

Where to learn these skills?

Get in touch with one of our UN insiders to learn how to learn and highlight UN skills, how to tailor your application to the UN job language or build a UN-style CV. Increase your chances to success with your application with tips and advice from U.N. insiders!

Conclusion

Yes, you can absolutely reskill for a job at the United Nations — and in fact, reskilling may be your greatest asset in an organization constantly adapting to global challenges. By aligning your new skills with the UN’s mission and operations, and committing to its values, you're putting yourself in a powerful position to contribute meaningfully on the world stage.

Reskilling is not a detour — it’s a transformation. And the UN needs changemakers who are ready for it.