The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is inviting qualified international professionals to apply for the role of Associate Legal Officer (UN Volunteer – Specialist) based in Nairobi, Kenya. This is a 12-month, full-time, onsite assignment offering hands-on experience within the UN system while contributing to global environmental governance and the rule of law.

This opportunity is ideal for early- to mid-career legal professionals seeking to apply international and environmental law expertise in a multilateral setting and support the legal backbone of one of the world’s leading environmental institutions.

About UNEP

Established in 1972, UNEP serves as the global authority on the environment, setting international agendas, promoting sustainable development, and advocating for environmental protection worldwide. Headquartered in Nairobi, UNEP works across regions and thematic areas to help nations improve quality of life while safeguarding future generations.

Role Overview

The Associate Legal Officer will be embedded within UNEP’s Legal Unit under the Corporate Services Division, working under the supervision of a Senior Legal Officer. The role provides broad exposure to international, administrative, and environmental law within the UN framework.

The selected UN Volunteer will contribute legal expertise across UNEP’s corporate functions, support internal legal processes, and assist in strengthening institutional accountability and governance.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Support & Advisory

• Provide legal assistance and corporate legal advice to UNEP divisions

• Draft, review, and amend legal agreements and instruments

• Advise on deviations from standard UN/UNEP legal templates

• Support due diligence reviews of non-profit and private sector partners

• Assist with audit-related legal processes and oversight recommendations

Legal Research & Policy Support

• Conduct research on international law, environmental law, privileges and immunities, and multilateral environmental agreements

• Support the development and revision of legal templates and internal policies

• Draft legal notes, briefs, summaries, and internal guidance documents

• Contribute to legal knowledge management systems and case workflows

Volunteerism & Knowledge Sharing

• Participate in UNV activities and promote the values of volunteerism

• Contribute articles and reflections for UNV publications and platforms

• Support peer integration through the UNV Buddy Programme

• Encourage engagement with online volunteering initiatives where relevant

Expected Outcomes

• High-quality legal research, advisory notes, and drafted instruments

• Strengthened legal risk management and institutional compliance

• Improved efficiency in legal workflows and partner engagements

• Meaningful contribution to capacity development and inclusive practices

• Integration of Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) perspectives in all tasks

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 4 January 2026

• Expected Start Date: 26 January 2026

• Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity.