Does the UN Have a Vacation Department?

By Michael Ferguson

Have you ever wondered if the United Nations has a vacation department? Well, the answer is no!

The United Nations (UN) is an international organization that was created to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries. It is not a travel agency or a vacation provider.

What is the UN?
The United Nations was founded in 1945 after World War II to prevent such a catastrophic conflict from happening again. Its mission is to maintain international peace and security, promote human rights and sustainable development, and provide humanitarian aid when necessary. Today, there are 193 member states in the UN.

How does the UN work?
The UN has six main organs: the General Assembly, the Security Council, the International Court of Justice, the Economic and Social Council, the Secretariat, and the Trusteeship Council (which has suspended its operations). Each organ has specific functions that contribute to achieving the UN’s overall goals.

Does UN staff get vacation time?
Yes! Like any other job, UN staff members receive vacation time.

However, their vacation days may differ depending on their contract type and length of service. According to the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC), staff members who have worked for less than five years receive 30 days of annual leave. Those who have worked for more than five years receive 36 days of annual leave.

Can you volunteer for the UN during your vacation?
Yes! The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program offers opportunities for individuals to contribute their skills and time to support peace and development efforts around the world. Volunteering with UNV can be done on a short-term or long-term basis.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to book your next vacation through a United Nations department (if it existed!), it’s important to remember that its mission is focused on promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations. So, if you’re interested in supporting the UN’s work, consider volunteering your time instead of booking a vacation.