Apply Now: Open Applications at UNWTO – Build a Career in Global Tourism and Sustainable Development
Apply Now: Open Applications at UNWTO – Build a Career in Global Tourism and Sustainable Development. Discover exciting global opportunities with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Submit your open application today and join the international mission to make tourism more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient.
🌍 Background & Job Description
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is a specialized agency of the UN dedicated to promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. Headquartered in Madrid, Spain, UNWTO works closely with member states, industry stakeholders, academic institutions, and global development organizations to position tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability.
While many positions at UNWTO are advertised with specific job titles, open applications are an essential channel for prospective candidates interested in contributing their expertise, passion, and innovation to future vacancies. These applications allow individuals to register their interest across departments, programmes, and regions—even if there isn’t an immediate job listing that matches their profile.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, a mid-level professional, or a senior expert in fields like sustainable tourism, public policy, economics, digital innovation, cultural heritage, international relations, or communications—UNWTO welcomes your expression of interest.
🛠️ Tasks and Areas of Contribution
Candidates who submit open applications may be considered for a variety of roles in future hiring rounds, depending on their skills and experience. Common areas of work at UNWTO include:
1. Tourism Development and Policy
- Supporting countries in developing sustainable tourism strategies
- Conducting research and data analysis on tourism trends
- Contributing to policy reports and global tourism forecasts
2. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Climate Action
- Designing tourism programs that align with the 2030 Agenda
- Supporting climate action plans and green transition initiatives
- Engaging with stakeholders on issues of biodiversity, circular economy, and resilience
3. Digital Transformation and Innovation
- Working on projects that enhance digital tourism ecosystems
- Promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy in tourism
- Supporting the digitalization of tourism MSMEs (micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises)
4. Education and Youth Empowerment
- Collaborating with universities and educational institutions on tourism curricula
- Designing training and fellowship programs for youth in tourism
- Promoting tourism as a tool for youth employment and empowerment
5. Communications and Public Affairs
- Managing social media and public outreach campaigns
- Drafting press releases, publications, and event summaries
- Engaging media, influencers, and partners for advocacy and awareness
6. Administrative and Programmatic Support
- Providing logistical and administrative support to field missions or events
- Supporting the organization of conferences and intergovernmental meetings
- Handling correspondence and coordination across units
Apply Now: Open Applications at UNWTO – Build a Career in Global Tourism and Sustainable Development
🎓 Qualifications
To be considered for future opportunities through an open application at UNWTO, candidates are expected to meet the following criteria:
📘 Education and Certification
- A university degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or higher) in a relevant field such as:
- Tourism Management
- International Relations
- Development Studies
- Economics
- Communications
- Environmental Science
- Business Administration
- Digital Technologies
- Additional certifications in project management, SDGs, or climate change may be advantageous
💼 Experience
- Work experience in tourism, public administration, sustainable development, or related sectors
- For junior roles: 1–3 years of relevant experience
- For mid- and senior-level roles: 5+ years of progressively responsible experience
- Experience in multilateral organizations, the private sector, academia, or NGOs is considered an asset
🌐 Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is mandatory
- Working knowledge of other official UN languages (Spanish, French, Arabic, Russian, Chinese) is highly desirable
🧠 Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates often demonstrate:
- A strong commitment to the values and mission of the United Nations
- Analytical thinking and strategic problem-solving abilities
- Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work in international teams
- Excellent communication and drafting skills
- Project management and organizational capabilities
- A results-oriented and proactive mindset
✈️ Additional Information
🔹 Contract Types
Depending on the role and available budget, selected candidates may be offered:
- Fixed-term contracts (P-graded international positions)
- Temporary assignments or consultancies
- Internships or junior professional positions
- Secondments or voluntary opportunities (in some special programmes)
🔹 Duty Stations
While the UNWTO headquarters is in Madrid, Spain, applicants may also be considered for positions in:
- UNWTO regional support offices (e.g., Riyadh, Geneva)
- Field missions or collaborative posts in member states
- Remote/home-based consultancies depending on project needs
🔹 Benefits
UNWTO employees enjoy access to:
- A competitive salary based on UN salary scales
- Health insurance coverage
- Pension scheme participation
- Professional development opportunities
- A culturally diverse and inclusive workplace
📝 How to Submit Your Open Application
To apply:
- Visit the official UNWTO career portal: https://www.unwto.org/careers
- Navigate to the section on open applications or speculative applications.
- Complete the online profile form and upload:
- A tailored CV/resumé
- A cover letter outlining your skills, interest, and potential areas of contribution
- Relevant certifications or proof of qualifications
- Double-check your information and submit the form.
- Keep your profile updated regularly. If your experience evolves or new achievements arise, update your application accordingly.
🚀 Final Thoughts: Why Apply to UNWTO?
By joining UNWTO, you become part of a global movement that leverages tourism as a force for good—reducing poverty, promoting peace, fostering innovation, and combating climate change. Even if a current vacancy isn’t available, an open application opens the door to be considered for future roles that align with your skills and aspirations.
If you believe in the transformative power of tourism and want to shape the future of travel, sustainability, and global development—apply today.
“Tourism can be a powerful catalyst for inclusive economic growth and social development. At UNWTO, you help turn that potential into action.”
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