On November 3, a career seminar aimed at increasing the number of Japanese staff working at the United Nations was held at United Nations University in Tokyo. Organized by the UN and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was reportedly the first visit to Japan in six and a half years by a senior official of the UN Secretariat's human resources department.
The speaker was Miguel Gordo, Director of the department. He said, "We need more young Japanese professionals," and called on people to apply for positions. He noted that although Japan contributes substantial assessed contributions to the UN, Japanese nationals still make up a low share of Secretariat staff, and said that younger generations can play an important role in international cooperation.
The UN is currently facing financial difficulties and is pursuing reforms, including staff reductions, through the "UN80 Initiative." Mr. Gordo acknowledged that the UN faces serious pressure and resource constraints, while saying that, building on efforts such as UN80, it aims to create a diverse, agile and future-ready organization.
Key points
- The head of the UN's human resources department visited Japan for the first time in six and a half years and urged young Japanese professionals to apply
- Japanese nationals are still said to account for a low share of UN Secretariat staff
- Even amid financial difficulties, the UN spoke of building a diverse and agile organization
Why this news deserves attention
Careers in international cooperation are not limited to NGOs or JICA; the UN system offers paths too. That the head of UN human resources came to Japan to speak directly to the younger generation is encouraging news for anyone considering a career in an international organization.
At the same time, the UN is reviewing its organization in a demanding environment. The message that it still wants young Japanese professionals may prompt students and working adults interested in international organizations to think about their own careers.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“What struck me is that the UN's head of human resources came to Japan for the first time in six and a half years to urge young people to apply. Wanting Japanese talent despite tight finances is surprising, yet hopeful.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“I was curious about the same point you raised, Aoba-san: seeking people despite tight finances. Perhaps young perspectives are needed to build a diverse, agile organization. I think it is reassuring for students unsure of their path.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“As you both say, a direct appeal makes the UN feel less distant. Learning that international cooperation work exists inside organizations like this, not only in the field, seems to widen the choices for the future.”
Editor-in-Chief’s comment
Ren DateEditor-in-Chief
“Working at the UN can feel like a distant world, but learning that its head of human resources came to Tokyo to appeal directly made it feel a little closer. There really are many paths into international cooperation.
If you are interested in working for an international organization, why not use this report as a cue to look into recruitment information from the UN and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs?”