Russian Volunteer carves a path to sustainable livelihoods in Fiji
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, it affected the Pacific economy majorly dependent on tourism income and related supply chains, it resulted in rising unemployment putting people at risk. In response UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji proposed the concept of Sustainable Livelihoods Challenge which aims to identify locally-led solutions to socio-economic issues and support their implementation. The challenge is believed to have a great potential to contribute to recovery from the repercussions of the pandemic.
The Challenge was introduced and implemented with the support of Evgeniya Kleshcheva, a UN Volunteer fully funded by the Russian Federation, who serves with UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji. In her interview, she shares her inspiring experience supporting the response to COVID-19 and recovery from economic losses in Fiji.
So far, the Challenge shows very successful results, so there are plans to continue and extend the initiative across the Pacific.
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme implements Full Funding Programme with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The Programme offers Russian nationals a unique opportunity to gain international experience and help the UN address the challenges of peace and sustainable development around the world.