The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is accepting applications for the YouthLED Integrity Advisory Board 2026–2028. Young people aged 18–29 from around the world can help shape global anti-corruption initiatives and youth engagement efforts.
Overview
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has launched a global call for applications for the YouthLED Integrity Advisory Board 2026–2028 under its Global Resource for Anti-Corruption Education and Youth Empowerment (GRACE) Initiative.
The Board brings together passionate young leaders from diverse backgrounds who are committed to promoting integrity, ethics, accountability, and anti-corruption action within their communities and beyond. Through this opportunity, selected members will work closely with UNODC and contribute to shaping youth-focused anti-corruption initiatives at local, regional, and global levels.
Applications are open to young people worldwide aged between 18 and 29 years who are interested in civic engagement, anti-corruption, rule of law, community action, and related fields.
About the YouthLED Integrity Advisory Board
The YouthLED Integrity Advisory Board was established by UNODC under the GRACE Initiative and is guided by the principle of “nothing about us without us.”
The Board recognizes young people as active partners, innovators, leaders, and contributors in anti-corruption efforts rather than simply beneficiaries. Members work alongside UNODC as co-leading partners to strengthen youth participation and engagement in integrity and anti-corruption initiatives.
Board members provide strategic advice, contribute to awareness campaigns, support youth-led activities, and help create opportunities for young people to become involved in anti-corruption efforts.
Selected members will serve a minimum of one year within a two-year mandate, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years of total service.
Members are expected to dedicate approximately three days per month to Board-related activities.
Benefits
Selected YouthLED Board members will receive:
- Opportunity to work directly with UNODC and the GRACE Initiative
- Global exposure through participation in international anti-corruption initiatives
- Opportunity to influence youth-focused anti-corruption policies and programs
- Access to an international network of youth leaders and changemakers
- Leadership and professional development experience
- Participation in youth consultations, workshops, campaigns, and events
- Opportunity to represent and amplify youth voices in global governance discussions
- Experience collaborating with United Nations experts and stakeholders
- Enhanced visibility for community projects and youth-led initiatives
Please note that participation on the Board is voluntary and does not include financial compensation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 29 years old at the time of application
- Be able to communicate effectively in English
- Demonstrate an interest in integrity, ethics, anti-corruption, peace, justice, or rule of law issues
- Have an interest in civic engagement, youth empowerment, community action, or related fields
- Be willing to dedicate approximately three days per month to Board activities
- Be available to participate in meetings, consultations, and collaborative activities
Previous experience with the United Nations or UNODC is not required.
UNODC strongly encourages applications from:
- Young people from diverse backgrounds and regions
- Individuals from marginalized and underrepresented communities
- Youth leaders involved in community organizations and networks
- Applicants from countries not previously represented on the Board
Application Process
To apply for the YouthLED Integrity Advisory Board:
Step 1: Review Board Documents
Carefully review:
- Terms of Reference of the Board
- Code of Conduct
- Information about the GRACE Initiative
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the official application form and answer questions related to:
- Motivation for joining the Board
- Community engagement experience
- Professional or volunteer networks
- Knowledge of anti-corruption issues
- Familiarity with the GRACE Initiative
- Previous UN or UNODC experience (if any)
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather all required application materials.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit the completed application form and all required documents before 14 August 2026.
Step 5: Participate in Interviews (If Shortlisted)
Selected candidates may be invited for an interview during the review process.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter (maximum one page or 500 words without spaces)
- Short Video (maximum 90 seconds)
- Completed Application Form
Deadline
Application Deadline
14 August 2026
Selection Timeline
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 14 August 2026 |
| Review Period | 15 August – 25 September 2026 |
| Notification of Selection | 5 October 2026 |
| Start of Board Term | 30 October 2026 |
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
| Opportunity | YouthLED Integrity Advisory Board 2026–2028 |
| Organization | United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) |
| Programme | GRACE Initiative |
| Type | Youth Advisory Board |
| Duration | Two-Year Mandate (Renewable) |
| Eligible Age | 18–29 Years |
| Eligible Countries | Worldwide |
| Language Requirement | English |
| Financial Compensation | None (Voluntary Position) |
| Time Commitment | Approximately 3 Days Per Month |
| Application Deadline | 14 August 2026 |
| Notification Date | 5 October 2026 |
| Start Date | 30 October 2026 |
Conclusion
The UNODC YouthLED Integrity Advisory Board 2026–2028 offers a unique opportunity for young people passionate about integrity, accountability, and anti-corruption to contribute to global initiatives led by the United Nations. Through collaboration, leadership, and advocacy, selected members will help shape youth engagement strategies while gaining valuable international experience and expanding their professional networks.
Young leaders interested in promoting ethical governance and strengthening anti-corruption efforts in their communities are encouraged to apply before the 14 August 2026 deadline.
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