Apply now for the UNDP Calls for Applications: International Individual Consultants (IC) Opportunities 2026. UNDP seeks skilled professionals and experts worldwide to provide specialized, time-bound services under its Individual Contract modality. Learn how to apply and join UNDP’s global network of development consultants.
Introduction
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially announced its 2026 Call for International Individual Consultants (ICs) — a unique opportunity for global professionals to collaborate with the UN’s leading development agency on critical international projects.
Through the Individual Contract (IC) modality, UNDP engages qualified individuals to deliver specific, results-based assignments that contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across 170+ countries and territories.
Whether you are an expert in climate change, governance, digital innovation, gender equality, sustainable finance, or humanitarian response, these consultancy roles offer the chance to apply your expertise toward global progress and impact.
What is the Individual Contract (IC) Modality?
The Individual Contract (IC) is a formal agreement between UNDP and an individual professional hired to provide time-bound, output-based services.
Unlike staff positions, the IC arrangement is non-staff and project-specific, focusing on delivering measurable outputs within a fixed timeline. Each contract clearly defines:
- The scope of work,
- Expected deliverables,
- Duration, and
- Payment schedule, directly linked to performance.
This modality ensures flexibility and agility in engaging high-level expertise for short- or medium-term assignments worldwide.
Objectives of the Consultancy Program
Through the 2026 International Individual Consultancy Call, UNDP aims to:
- Mobilize global expertise to accelerate progress toward the SDGs.
- Support ongoing and new projects in governance, digitalization, environmental sustainability, gender inclusion, and crisis response.
- Ensure effective delivery of technical assistance, research, and advisory services across all UNDP country offices and regional hubs.
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UNDP Calls for Applications
Areas of Expertise in Demand
UNDP seeks professionals with proven experience in the following priority areas for 2026:
1. Climate Change and Environment
- Climate adaptation and mitigation policy
- Biodiversity conservation
- Renewable energy and low-carbon transition
- Sustainable water and land management
2. Governance, Peace, and Justice
- Public sector reform and policy advisory
- Anti-corruption and transparency
- Electoral systems and civic engagement
- Human rights and social inclusion
3. Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Finance
- Economic policy and fiscal governance
- Private sector development
- Green and digital economy strategies
- Microfinance and social entrepreneurship
4. Gender Equality and Social Inclusion
- Gender mainstreaming and analysis
- Women’s leadership and empowerment programs
- Youth engagement and inclusion frameworks
5. Crisis Response and Resilience Building
- Humanitarian coordination and recovery planning
- Conflict prevention and peacebuilding
- Disaster risk reduction and preparedness
6. Digital Transformation and Innovation
- ICT policy and e-governance
- Artificial intelligence for development (AI4D)
- Data science, monitoring, and impact analytics
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for consideration as an International Individual Consultant (IC) in 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education:
Advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in a relevant field such as economics, political science, engineering, environmental studies, or international relations. - Experience:
Minimum of 5–10 years of professional experience in the relevant technical or thematic area. - Expertise:
Proven track record in providing technical, research, or advisory services to international organizations, governments, or NGOs. - Language Proficiency:
Excellent command of English is required. Proficiency in French or Spanish is an asset. - Availability:
Consultants must be available for short-term or project-based assignments and capable of delivering outputs remotely or in-country.
Contract Features and Benefits
The Individual Contract (IC) offers flexibility, independence, and competitive compensation.
Key Features:
- Non-staff contractual arrangement under UNDP Financial Regulations (Article 21, Regulation 21.02).
- Duration: From several weeks to up to 12 months (renewable based on performance and project needs).
- Payment: Based on completion of agreed deliverables and approval of results by UNDP.
- Work Modality: Remote (home-based), hybrid, or on-site at UNDP duty stations worldwide.
- Eligibility: Open to both international and national consultants depending on project requirements.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to work with UNDP’s global network and partners.
- Engagement in high-impact projects that drive global development.
- Exposure to cross-sectoral collaboration within the UN system.
- Professional growth through real-world policy and technical assignments.
Application Process
Interested professionals can apply through the UNDP Jobs Portal, where all open consultancy opportunities are regularly published.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the UNDP Jobs Portal: https://jobs.undp.org
- Select “Consultant / Individual Contractor Opportunities” under the contract type filter.
- Browse available assignments categorized by region, thematic area, or project.
- Review the Terms of Reference (TOR) for each position carefully.
- Prepare and submit:
- Detailed CV or UN Personal History Form (P11)
- Technical proposal (outlining your understanding of the assignment and approach)
- Financial proposal (all-inclusive daily or lump-sum fee in USD)
- Submit your application before the specified deadline.
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Selection Criteria
UNDP evaluates applications based on:
- Technical expertise and relevance of experience.
- Quality of proposed approach and methodology.
- Cost-effectiveness of the financial proposal.
- Language and communication skills.
Candidates who pass initial screening may be invited for interviews or further assessment.
Payment Terms
Payments are strictly tied to the delivery of approved outputs as outlined in the signed contract. Each deliverable must meet the quality standards defined by UNDP before payment is released.
No advance payments are made unless explicitly stated in the contract and approved under UNDP’s financial rules.
Key Advantages of Being a UNDP Consultant
- Work on global, regional, and national projects across diverse sectors.
- Collaborate with UN agencies, governments, and NGOs on real-world development challenges.
- Contribute to transformative outcomes in climate action, digital innovation, and human development.
- Gain visibility and professional recognition in the UN system.
- Build long-term partnerships through repeat or extended assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between a UNDP staff position and an Individual Contract?
Staff positions are ongoing roles under UNDP’s personnel framework, while Individual Contracts are short-term, output-based engagements for specialized tasks.
2. Can consultants work remotely?
Yes. Many assignments are home-based or hybrid, allowing international consultants to contribute from any location.
3. Are ICs eligible for UN staff benefits?
No. Individual Consultants are not considered UNDP staff and are therefore not entitled to staff benefits such as health insurance or pensions.
4. What happens after I submit my application?
Your profile will be reviewed by the hiring unit. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for interviews or written assessments.
5. How can I improve my chances of selection?
Ensure your CV highlights relevant technical achievements, tailor your proposal to the TOR, and demonstrate measurable impact from previous assignments.
Final Thoughts
The UNDP International Individual Consultancy Opportunities 2026 present an ideal pathway for experts seeking to make a tangible difference in global development.
If you have the skills, experience, and motivation to drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, this is your chance to partner with UNDP and deliver impactful results on a global stage.
Take the next step in your professional journey.
Apply Now: https://jobs.undp.org
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