“Ecuador is marked by a long history of exclusion of Indigenous peoples and fragile intercultural dialogue, which continues to generate tensions,” Noémie explains. “Despite the Constitution recognizing the country as intercultural and plurinational, there is still a limited understanding of what these concepts truly mean, both in principle and in practice”. 

“Life took an unexpected turn during my master’s studies. Just when everything seemed to be falling into place, I began feeling unwell. Doctors confirmed a neurological diagnosis, and my world shifted. I faced both physical and mental barriers, compounded by social stigma. I found myself asking, “Why me?” I never wanted to be defined by pity or by my condition. What I knew, even in that uncertainty, was that I wanted to be recognized for my intellect and contribution, not for my health challenges. 

"My day usually begins around 7:20 in the morning. I arrive at the office, review my task list, and adjust priorities before meetings begin. A cup of black coffee helps me focus. Early childhood development work moves quickly because it connects many sectors at once. No single programme can support a young child alone. Nutrition affects brain growth. Health services prevent lifelong complications. Safe water reduces disease. Early learning shapes cognitive and social skills. Protection ensures safety and dignity. My work brings these pieces together.

"As a UN Volunteer Specialist in Law, Gender, and Communication with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Madagascar, I spend much of my time creating spaces where these conversations can happen. My role sits at the intersection of law, community dialogue, and communication. It requires listening as much as teaching.

South Sudan is still learning how to live after years of conflict. UNMISS supports that fragile process—protecting civilians, enabling humanitarian access, advancing human rights, supporting political dialogue, and helping prepare the ground for elections. My work lives inside that reality, not outside it.

Tell our readers about yourself: what is your background? Where did you work before taking on a UN Volunteer assignment with FAO? 

When Elizaveta arrived in Tajikistan in January 2025, her goal was clear: shine a light on the school feeding programme funded by the Russian Government, which also funds her UN Volunteer assignment. But as her assignment unfolded, her role expanded—covering all WFP programmes in Tajikistan and making her work as dynamic as the country itself.

Natalia had to prepare not only her suitcase but her mindset. This wasn’t just a job, it was a commitment to serve in a place where peace is fragile and every action matters. She continues, "Fear slowly gave way to determination as I reminded myself why I chose this path—to make a difference where it’s needed most. What awaited me was not comfort, but purpose. 

“The first of January 1983 is the internet’s birthday. At that time, Antigua and Barbuda, where I call home, had only been independent for a little over a year. Many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), due to our small country size, population, and our separation by water, struggled to develop economically and therefore transform digitally. On the other hand, countries with economies of scale, developed infrastructure and high capital were able to transform at a rapid pace and at a lower cost.

Aslı Akbay Alagöz explains the legal rights available to victims and stresses that women must be protected in digital spaces just as they are in the physical world. As the digital environment becomes central to daily life, the forms of violence have also evolved. Today, threats, harassment, stalking, the disclosure of intimate images, deepfakes, and AI-based manipulations are among the most common examples of digital violence. Aslı answers questions on the legal framework of digital violence and the rights of victims.