United Nations reviews

US citizens are not treated equally in pay and benefits - a cautionary note to those in the US interested to work for the UN. US citizens in professional categories will receive about 10K+ net less because the UN requires US citizens to pay part of their federal taxes. No relocation, rental or home leave benefits either. Unlike in the corporate world, your pension contributions are mandatory, even when you start on a temporary basis, or if you are lucky enough to have a trust fund and arguably do not need to save more. This is driven by the fact that the pension fund is under pressure to honor its obligations to retirees and funds are diminishing, not unlike US local governments, mind you. UN has no COBRA benefits, which means that if one separates from the organization, the insurance is cut off.

I'm embarrassed to work at the United Nations. As an employee, I don't see a work environment that corresponds to any of its purported values. The organization frequently chooses failure. Projects that should take months stretch on to years. Work that should be done by staff is handed to consultants. Outputs are often of low quality. There is zero will to change or improve. I've seen a deep lack of integrity in hiring. Managers refuse to consider highly qualified people. Unqualified people are allowed to pass interviews, even if they fail the assessment. People who lack intelligence, social skills or any work ethic get promoted. There is zero career development or training. I regret joining the organization and feel stuck there.