Launch your international health career with the World Health Organization Junior Positions 2026. Gain hands-on experience in global health policy, management, and technical cooperation.
Introduction
Are you a young professional passionate about global public health and international development? The World Health Organization (WHO) is inviting applications for its Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme 2026 — an exclusive opportunity to work with the world’s leading health agency while developing a long-term career in global health.
This high-impact programme offers paid international assignments for motivated early-career professionals to work on WHO’s strategic priorities — from disease prevention and emergency response to health systems strengthening and policy innovation.
Becoming a JPO at WHO means contributing directly to the organization’s Triple Billion Targets:
- One billion more people benefiting from universal health coverage,
- One billion more people better protected from health emergencies, and
- One billion more people enjoying better health and well-being.
About the World Health Organization Junior Positions 2026
The WHO Junior Professional Officer Programme (also known as the Associate Experts Programme) provides talented young professionals with the chance to gain practical experience in multilateral technical cooperation and to build skills for international careers in public health, policy, and administration.
JPOs are assigned to WHO offices across the world — including Headquarters (Geneva), Regional Offices, and Country Offices — where they work under the supervision of experienced WHO officials.
They contribute to a wide range of health-related areas, such as:
- Global disease prevention and control
- Health systems and policy development
- Nutrition, maternal and child health
- Climate change and environmental health
- Emergency preparedness and humanitarian response
- Health economics and research
- Program management and partnerships
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Why Join the WHO JPO Programme?
Joining WHO as a Junior Professional Officer is not just a job — it’s a career-defining opportunity to make a difference on a global scale.
Key Benefits:
- Competitive international salary based on UN salary scales.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, travel coverage, and leave entitlements.
- Exposure to international policy-making and program implementation.
- Mentorship and training from world-class public health professionals.
- Career advancement opportunities within the UN system.
- Networking and mobility across WHO country and regional offices.
Professional Growth:
WHO supports continuous professional development for JPOs, including:
- Leadership and technical training,
- Cross-sectoral collaboration, and
- Participation in international health policy discussions and conferences.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the WHO Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
General Eligibility:
- Age: Under 32 years old at the time of application.
- Education: Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public health, international relations, medicine, social sciences, economics, or related fields.
- Experience: At least two years of relevant professional experience in health, development, policy, or administration.
- Language Proficiency: Excellent command of English (both written and spoken). Knowledge of another official WHO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is an asset.
- Nationality: Must be a national of a donor country participating in the JPO Programme. However, some donors sponsor candidates from developing countries as well.
Note: Donor countries participating in the WHO JPO Programme include (but are not limited to):
Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.
For developing country applicants, specific sponsorship arrangements may apply.
Placement Opportunities
JPOs are placed in WHO offices around the world, depending on project needs and candidate expertise. Typical placements include:
- WHO Headquarters (Geneva, Switzerland) – Global policy, research, and coordination.
- Regional Offices – Implementation of regional health strategies.
- Country Offices – Direct field-level experience in global health programs.
Each assignment lasts one to two years, with possible extensions based on performance and donor funding.
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Compensation and Benefits
The WHO JPO Programme offers one of the most competitive compensation packages in the United Nations system.
Salary and Allowances:
- Annual salary: Based on P1/P2 UN professional level, varying by duty station (typically between USD 70,000 – 90,000 annually, tax-exempt).
- Post adjustment allowance: Added to reflect cost of living at the duty station.
- Travel expenses: Covered for relocation to and from the duty station.
- Insurance coverage: Comprehensive health and accident insurance.
- Leave entitlements: Paid annual and sick leave in accordance with UN staff regulations.
Application Process
All applications for the WHO Junior Professional Officer Programme are managed through the UNDP JPO Service Centre, which facilitates recruitment for multiple UN agencies.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the UNDP JPO Service Centre Website:
https://www.jposc.undp.org - Review Open JPO Vacancies:
Select “WHO” under participating organizations to view active JPO posts for 2026. - Prepare Required Documents:
- Updated CV/Resume (in English).
- Motivation Letter outlining your interest in WHO and global health.
- Proof of Nationality from a donor country (passport copy).
- Academic credentials (advanced degree diploma).
- Letters of recommendation (optional, but encouraged).
- Submit Application Online before the deadline stated on each posting.
- Interview and Selection:
Shortlisted candidates will undergo technical interviews and assessments conducted jointly by WHO and the donor government.
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Timeline for WHO JPO 2026
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Call for Applications | October – December 2025 |
| Application Deadline | Varies by donor government |
| Shortlisting and Interviews | January – March 2026 |
| Final Selection | April – May 2026 |
| Onboarding and Orientation | June – September 2026 |
JPO Testimonial
Martin Dohlsten, former WHO JPO:
“Working as a JPO at WHO gave me a global perspective on public health challenges and the opportunity to contribute to projects that truly save lives. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.”
Why WHO?
Working at WHO means joining a team of global experts dedicated to ensuring health equity for all. As a JPO, you will:
- Work on life-changing health programs in over 150 countries.
- Contribute to research and innovation in health systems and emergency preparedness.
- Gain access to a global network of health professionals, governments, and partners.
- Be part of a workplace that values diversity, integrity, and collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the duration of a WHO JPO assignment?
Typically 1–2 years, with the possibility of extension depending on donor funding and performance.
2. Is this a paid position?
Yes. JPOs receive a competitive UN salary and benefits package.
3. Who funds the JPO Programme?
Positions are financed by donor governments that sponsor young professionals from their own or developing countries.
4. What kind of work will I do as a JPO?
You’ll work alongside WHO experts on technical, research, or administrative projects that contribute to global public health outcomes.
5. Do I apply directly to WHO or through my government?
Applications are processed through the UNDP JPO Service Centre on behalf of WHO. Some governments may also run their own national pre-selection process.
6. Can developing country nationals apply?
Yes — some donor governments sponsor candidates from developing nations under special agreements.
7. What career opportunities follow after a JPO assignment?
Many JPOs transition into permanent positions within WHO or other UN agencies after completing their assignments.
Final Thoughts
The WHO Junior Professional Officer Programme 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for young professionals ready to contribute to global health while gaining invaluable field and policy experience.
By joining WHO as a JPO, you will embark on a transformative journey — developing your expertise, expanding your network, and shaping the future of international health cooperation.
If you’re under 32, highly motivated, and ready to serve humanity at a global scale, apply now to begin your career with the World Health Organization.
Apply Now: UNDP JPO Service Centre – WHO JPO Programme
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